Ottawa Public Health recommends updated COVID-19 vaccine this fall
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October 7th, 2024 

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is recommending that individuals receive an updated KP.2-containing COVID-19 mRNA vaccine this fall to protect themselves against current variants.  Individuals 6 months and older should get the updated KP.2 COVID-19 vaccine if it has been 6 months since their last dose or confirmed COVID-19 infection. Those who haven’t been vaccinated before can also receive the updated vaccine, which is especially important for those at higher risk of severe illness.  
 
Initial doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccine are available for eligible individuals at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection or severe illness due to COVID-19, including:   
  • Adults 65 years of age or older 
  • Residents of long-term care homes and other congregate living settings (e.g., chronic care facilities, retirement homes)   
  • Individuals who have underlying medical conditions that place them at higher risk of severe COVID-19, including children with complex health needs 
  • Pregnant individuals   
  • Individuals from First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities   
  • Members of racialized and other equity-deserving communities 
 
Effective October 28, 2024, the updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available for all residents aged 6 months and older.  
 
There are many options for getting your updated COVID-19 vaccine:  
  • Many local pharmacies have received the updated vaccine from the Ministry of Health and are offering them to eligible individuals in Ottawa. Visit your nearest pharmacy today.  
  • Check with your regular health care provider to see if they offer the vaccines. 
  • Beginning October 15, 2024, OPH Community Clinics and Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs will offer the updated COVID-19 vaccines for eligible high risk and priority populations who face barriers to access the vaccine. This includes newcomers without OHIP and children under 2.  
 
To book your appointment with OPH for the updated COVID-19 vaccine:  
Effective October 9, 2024, OPH appointments for the updated COVID-19 vaccine will be released. Appointments at an OPH Community Clinic can be booked through the Ontario COVID-19 vaccination portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 (TTY: 1-866-797-0007).  OPH Neighbourhood and Wellness Hubs offer vaccines on a drop-in basis.
 
The Ontario Ministry of Health is also launching vaccine campaigns for flu and RSV this fall. Information on both campaigns will be released in the weeks to come.  For more information on flu vaccines, please visit OPH’s Influenza webpage.
 
Ottawa Public Health wants to remind Ottawa residents that there are simple and effective ways to help protect yourself, your families and our communities against respiratory illness. Using the following layers of protection helps keep everyone safe:  
  • Stay home when sick until you are fever-free (without using fever-reducing medication AND your symptoms have been improving for 24 hours or 48 hours for vomiting/diarrhea).  
  • Wash your hands (or use hand sanitizer) often and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.  
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.  
  • Disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home and workplace.  
  • Keep your vaccinations up to date, including getting your annual flu vaccine and your updated COVID-19 vaccine.  
  • Avoid visiting people at high-risk of severe illness when you are sick (including people living in long-term care, retirement homes or in hospital).  
  • Wear a mask:  
  • To protect yourself from viral respiratory illnesses.  
  • To protect others at higher risk of severe respiratory illness.  
  • When you’re recovering from illness.  
 
For more information on respiratory illness, including fall vaccines, please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/RespVirus. If you suspect you have COVID-19, visit the Province’s website to learn more about symptoms, testing, and treatment.
 
A PSA was issued today:  
The message has also been shared on OPH social media channels:
X (Twitter) ​
Facebook FR: https://www.facebook.com/ottawasante/posts/pfbid02Vh2zmnipdnYkpNU4RSH4rGsTJfnRpsWsfpMsUTnsNFeMpZ4AoXBUmMPth6ehyk73l
Working on Wellness Festival 2024

September 9th, 2024 
On September 13th, 2024, Ottawa Public Health will be participating in the third annual Working on Wellness (WOW) Festival. The WOW festival is organized by CAPSA (previously the Community Addictions Peer Support Association) and supported by many community partners.
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This event brings Substance Use Health, Mental Health and Physical Health communities together under one tent, to support wellness for all people.
CAPSA is a national leader on the topic of stigma, its impacts on individuals who use substances or have a substance use disorder and on identifying and correcting instances of systemic stigma. OPH has been working very closely with CAPSA and other community partners on stigma reduction, including education, surveillance data, media training, and public education, training and awareness initiatives.

Ottawa Public Health encourages all members of the community to join and participate in this year’s WOW Festival on Friday September 13th from 11:00am to 4:00pm at Marion Dewar Plaza, Ottawa City Hall.

More info: https://www.facebook.com/share/b6FXaMQNZKjaUhPd/
Ottawa Public Health Update - Beat the Heat

August 1st, 2024
When the temperature and humidity are high, our bodies can overheat, especially in the first few days of hot weather while our bodies adjust.
 
Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high-risk category. It is recommended that you Download the WeatherCAN app to your mobile device to stay informed of all weather alerts.
 
Extreme heat affects everyone. The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors. Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions. Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable.
 
There are many public places residents and visitors can cool off in Ottawa including splash pads, wading pools, swimming pools, parks, libraries, and community buildings. The public is welcome to seek access to air conditioning at any City facility during regular hours of operation.
 
The Beat the Heat resources on the Ottawa Public Health Extreme Heat and Humidity website include: 
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  • A Beat the Heat factsheet that identifies the many public places people can go to cool off in Ottawa, and tips on how to cool off when it is hot outside.
  • An interactive map of public places to cool off in Ottawa including City pools, splash pads, libraries, shade structures, parks, and more.
  • What to do if there is a power outage during a heat wave. 
 
Other things you can to do prepare yourself include:

  • Download the WeatherCAN app for mobile devices.
  • Who to call for advice and support when it is hot out: 
  • Call 2-1-1 for social services assistance information such as locations and to access information about day programs, meals, and how to access homeless shelters. Find out more about  shelters in Ottawa. 
  • Call 3-1-1 to get assistance for someone who needs transportation to a shelter to get out of the heat. 
  • Call 8-1-1 Health Connect Ontario for non-emergency medical advice.
  • Call 9-1-1 for medical emergency such as heat stroke.  
Extreme Heat Warning

June 17th, 2024 
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Purpose
 
The purpose of this memo is to provide an update on actions taken by the City when Environment and Climate Change Canada issues a heat warning for Ottawa.
 
The City of Ottawa’s Extreme Heat, Cold and Smog Plan

  • Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issues a heat warning when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with daytime maximum temperatures of 31°C or warmer, together with nighttime minimum temperatures of 20°C or warmer or when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with humidex values expected to reach 40°C or higher.
 
  • Extreme heat response is a shared responsibility involving multiple City departments and community partners working collaboratively to lead actions in their respective areas of responsibility. The City of Ottawa’s Extreme Heat, Cold and Smog Plan (the EHCS Plan) was developed to outline the actions that the City and community partners will take to prepare for, to mitigate, and respond to these events.
 
  • The City’s Extreme Heat, Cold and Smog Planning Committee meets regularly to review the EHCS Plan and update information for partners and residents to help prepare for the hot weather season. Committee members include representatives from Emergency and Protective Services (EPS); Community and Social Services (CSSD); Recreation, Cultural and Facility Services; Finance and Corporate Services; Ottawa Public Health (OPH); Ottawa Public Library; 3-1-1 Client Services; The Salvation Army Outreach Services; Ottawa Community Housing; Home and Community Care Support Services, and 2-1-1 Community Navigation of Eastern Ontario.
 
How does the City prepare for extreme heat events?

  • The Ottawa Board of Health, City Council and service providers who support those most at risk of heat-related illness receive pre-season information on the services, resources and adaptative strategies recommended to reduce the risks associated with extreme heat events in Ottawa. This includes downloading the ECCC WeatherCAN app to receive weather alerts directly on your smartphone.
 
  • OPH, CSSD, and EPS review and update procedures and messaging for 3-1-1, related to services and resources available during extreme heat events, to ensure accuracy and consistency. In addition, 3-1-1 staff receive up-to-date information from Public Information and Media Relations (PIMR) and media advisories related to extreme weather to answer heat-related inquiries.
 
  • OPH offers to review and provide input into policies and procedures for managing extreme heat risks for service providers such as schools, daycares, outdoor parks, recreation programs, and summer camps. Service providers interested in seeking this guidance may reach out to [email protected].
 
  • OPH regularly updates its Extreme Heat and Humidity webpage with current information on services to help people stay cool and on ways to prevent heat-related health impacts, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and sunburn.
 
New for the 2024 season
 
• OPH’s interactive map of places to cool off has been updated to make it easier to navigate and more user-friendly. The map also now includes locations of publicly accessible drinking water fountains.
 
• Infrastructure and Water Services will continue its fire hydrant fountain pilot program to help residents stay hydrated and cool this summer. The EHCS Planning Committee has helped identify locations to promote access to drinking water for people most at risk of heat-related illness, including people who are experiencing homelessness.
 
• The EHCS Planning Committee continues to explore additional measures to promote community resilience during extreme heat events, as recommended in the November 2023 report to the Board of Health on the Climate Change Health Impact and Vulnerability Assessment for Extreme Heat, and the City of Ottawa Draft Climate Resilience Strategy.
 
What happens when a Heat Warning is issued?
 
The EHCS Plan guides preventative strategies for the City and service providers. For people experiencing homelessness, this includes ensuring access to shelters, drop-in programs and outreach services.
 
Communications to Council, to service providers, and to residents:
 
• OPH shares ECCC heat warnings via social media and promotes actions that individuals can take to prevent heat-related illness, injuries, and deaths.
 
• OPH promotes the ECCC WeatherCAN app and strongly recommends that residents sign up to receive weather alerts directly.
 
• OPH encourages residents to visit its Extreme Heat and Humidity webpage, which is updated regularly with current information and resources, including information on how to stay safe in a heat wave if there is a power outage.
 
• Other City departments may also communicate specific information related to their services.
 
• Public Information and Media Relations (PIMR) shares OPH messaging and coordinates any joint communication required from specific City services. PIMR can amplify the reach of the other departments/services by posting messaging on the corporate social media channels
 
Access to cool spaces for residents
 
• It’s important for residents and visitors to have access to cool places throughout the summer. OPH’s interactive map of places to cool off on the Extreme Heat and Humidity webpage provides information about public places where residents and visitors can cool off in Ottawa. It includes splash pads, wading pools, swimming pools, parks, libraries, and community buildings.
 
• The public is welcome to seek access to air conditioning at any City facility during regular hours of operation (note: Emergency Cooling Centers will be opened only if there is a concurrent situation that requires an enhanced response by the City of Ottawa, such as a significant power outage or a prolonged heat emergency).
 
• City pools convert to leisure swims, and all adult and specialty swims are cancelled help more people cool off.
 
• Ottawa Community Housing and some privately owned low-income housing managers provide cool rooms where available, to help residents without air conditioning cool off.
 
Hot weather assistance to people experiencing homelessness
 
• Outreach services, including CSSD’s Community Engagement Team and the Salvation Army Outreach Van distribute resources, such as water, to priority populations, including people experiencing homelessness.
 
• Shelters (e.g., The Ottawa Mission, The Ottawa Booth Centre, The Youth Services Bureau) encourage clients to stay indoors and use their air-conditioned spaces.
 
• The Salvation Army Outreach Van operates from 6 am to 3 am, 365 days of the year. The only caveat in extreme cold, they alter to a 24-hour model to connect with unsheltered individuals and bring them to safe shelter.
 
• 2-1-1 helps connect residents with information on programs and services to cool down, such as cool places and day programs where everyone is welcome.
 
• 3-1-1 provides residents with information on programs and services to cool down, and how to access community shelters.
 
Monitoring and surveillance
 
• The Office of Emergency Management works closely with OPH, CSSD and other City services to ensure that conditions that could warrant an enhanced response are identified and escalated quickly.
 
• Should there be a need for an enhanced response by the City of Ottawa (e.g., Extended Heat Warning in combination with a power outage or other emergency), the City is prepared to mobilize the Emergency Operations Centre.
 
• OPH monitors epidemiological data during Heat Warning events to determine how many people are seeking care at local emergency departments for heat related illness.
 
What happens during wildfire smoke events?

  • Outdoor air quality in Ottawa is almost always ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and poses low risk even for people who are sensitive to air pollution. However, in 2023, wildfire smoke from fires in Northern Ontario and Québec led to several days with poor air quality in Ottawa.
 
ECCC and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) are responsible for monitoring air quality in Ontario. MECP publishes the Air Quality Health Index to help people plan activities based on the forecasted air quality. ECCC and MECP jointly issue Special Air Quality Statements or Smog and Air Health Advisories when the Air Quality Index has reached high risk.
 
Reducing health risks from wildfire smoke and poor air quality
 
OPH recommends that everyone monitors the Air Quality Health Index and consider the health messaging to plan activities accordingly. During wildfire smoke events, OPH uses social media to share messaging and encourages residents to download the WeatherCAN app. OPH’s Outdoor Air Pollution web page includes information on how residents can protect themselves from outdoor air pollution, including wildfire smoke, and provides suggestions on how to reduce exposure.
 

Information and resources for residents
 
• Beat the heat fact sheet
 
• The OPH Extreme Heat and Humidity webpage provides information about preventing heat related illness, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and includes links to resources in our community to help people find emergency shelter (including transportation to shelter).
 
• The webpage also has an interactive map of places to cool off, including City of Ottawa operated pools, splash pads, libraries, shade structures, parks, and more. These are places throughout the City where the public is welcome to seek access to air conditioning during regular business hours and access is free of charge. The map also includes locations of publicly accessible drinking water fountains. Locations included on the map are validated at the beginning of the season.
 
• Residents can call 2-1-1, the Community Navigation of Eastern Ontario, to obtain information about services and locations of drop-in centres, community and health resource centres, food banks and community food programs and financial assistance for their utilities. The “Find Your Way Community Resource Guide” provides contact information for services such as shelters and drop-in centres.
 
• Residents can call 3-1-1 Client Services for information on programs and services to cool down, and how to access community shelters.
 
• Printable posters are available from Health Canada on ways to protect you and loved ones during an extreme heat event.
 
• The OPH Outdoor Air Pollution webpage provides information about the Air Quality Health Index, health effects associated with air pollution and ways to reduce exposure from poor air quality.
 
Questions
 
For questions, please contact Ottawa Public Health via email at [email protected].
February 9th, 2024

Respiratory Illness & Older Adults
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has a few helpful reminders for older adults and their loved ones during the respiratory illness season. We hope you will find this information helpful as you, your loved ones, and your family navigate this respiratory illness season. For more information, please visit OPH’s Respiratory Virus webpage. 
 
What to do if you have symptoms 
  • Common symptoms of respiratory illnesses include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, shortness of breath, muscle aches, fatigue, vomiting/diarrhea, abdominal pain. 
  • Stay home until you are fever-free (without using fever-reducing medication) AND your symptoms have been improving for 24 hours (48 hours for vomiting/diarrhea). 
  • If you can’t stay home: wear a well-fitting mask and avoid non-essential mask-less activities for 10 days from when symptoms started. 
  • Don’t visit individuals who are at high-risk of severe illness including people in long-term care, retirement homes or in hospital. 
 
Reducing the spread of respiratory illness 
  • Keep your vaccinations up to date including getting your annual flu vaccine and any COVID-19 doses you are eligible for. 
  • Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. 
  • Disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home and workplace. 
  • Wear a mask: 
    • To protect yourself from viral respiratory illnesses;  
    • To protect people who are at higher risk of severe respiratory illness; and 
    • When you’re recovering from illness. 
 
Testing and Treatment  
COVID-19  
  • If you have symptoms of respiratory illness and are at higher risk for severe outcomes or complications from COVID-19, free rapid antigen tests (RATs) are available to support getting access to COVID-19 antiviral treatment, like Paxlovid. 
  • Ottawa residents are able to access RAT kits through various locations across the city, like libraries and existing OPH services, including neighbourhood hubs and community clinics. A new location has also been added at 100 Constellation Drive in Nepean. 
  • Visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVIDTesting to learn more about where to access free rapid antigen tests (RATs) across the city and to learn more about antiviral treatment. 
  • Speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about antiviral treatment (Paxlovid), treatment with Paxlovid is available and must be taken within a few days of symptoms starting to be effective. 
 
Influenza (flu) 
  • Most people who get influenza (flu) do not need medical treatment and can manage their symptoms at home.  
  • Individuals at higher risk of becoming very sick from the flu may be able to get antiviral medication to lessen the severity of the symptoms and help prevent complications. You do not need to test positive for the flu to receive antiviral medication for the flu. 
  • Those at higher risk for complications from the flu include: 
    • Adults 65 years of age and older 
    • Pregnant persons and persons up to four weeks post-partum 
    • Those with underlying medical conditions 
  • If you have flu-like symptoms and you are at higher risk, you can contact your health care provider when your symptoms start. In most cases, antiviral medication should be started within the first 48 hours (about 2 days) of when symptoms started. 
  • Don’t have a primary care provider? You can talk to your local pharmacist to inquire about antiviral treatment availability. 
 
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Vaccination  
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is another respiratory virus that can cause severe illness in individuals who are at higher risk, like older adults. 
  • The province is currently publicly funding a High-Risk Older Adult RSV Vaccine Program, which means that the vaccine is free for individuals 60 years and older who qualify based on the following criteria: 
    • Living in long-term care homes; 
    • Living in Elder Care Lodges; 
    • Residents of retirement homes licensed to provide dementia care; 
    • Patients in hospital receiving alternate level of care (ALC); 
    • Patients receiving hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis;  
    • Recipients of solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplants;  
    • Individuals experiencing homelessness; and   
    • Individuals who identify as First Nations, Inuit or Métis. 
  • Individuals who are eligible are encouraged to check with the setting in which they are eligible (such as their hospital specialist or retirement home) for information on how to get the vaccine.  
  • Individuals who are not eligible can visit the provincial website for more information on how to obtain a prescription and purchase the vaccine. 

Celebrating Black History Month

February 1st, 2024
February is Black History Month. It’s an opportunity to challenge our current knowledge about the history of Black people in Canada, to reflect on what we can do to combat racism, and to identify ways to foster more inclusive and equitable environments, both personally and within broader social contexts. 
 
The Canadian theme for Black History Month 2024 is Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build. During this month, let’s take the occasion to celebrate the contributions of Black people in Canada and their achievements that make Canada what it is today.  
 
We encourage you to review the resources and events taking place during Black History Month: 
 
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An Update from Ottawa Public Health on the Respiratory Virus Season  

January 19th, 2024
​The levels of COVID-19 circulating in our community are high and similar to last week. Influenza activity in Ottawa is high and decreasing since last week. RSV activity is moderate and similar to last week.  
 
Ottawa Public Health wants to remind individuals, especially people at higher risk, to prioritize their health by taking proactive measures and making informed choices.  
 
Vaccination continues to be one of the best ways for people to help protect themselves against severe outcomes from COVID-19 and flu, including hospitalization. It’s not too late to get these important vaccines to help protect yourself and your family. Residents can get their vaccines at their local pharmacy. Please contact your local pharmacy, regular health care provider or visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca for vaccine appointment bookings.  
 
Your actions matter – every action taken to reduce the spread of viruses helps. By doing your part to protect you and your loved ones from respiratory illness, you're also reducing the pressure on our local hospitals.  

  • Stay up to date on your vaccines – including your updated COVID-19 vaccine and annual flu vaccine.  
  • Stay home when sick – stay home until you are fever-free (without the use of fever-reducing medications) AND your symptoms have been improving for 24 hours (48 hours for vomiting/diarrhea).  
  • Do not visit loved ones in hospital, long term care or retirement homes when you have symptoms.  
  • Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.  
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.  
  • Disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home and workplace.  
  • Wear a mask – wear a mask to protect yourself from respiratory viruses, to protect others at high risk, and when recovering from illness.  

Visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/RespVirus for more information on reducing the spread, vaccines, and what to do if you’re sick – including where to get treatment (like Paxlovid) for COVID-19.  
Know the 4 Signs of Frostbite

January 17th, 2024
A case could be made for the fact that it's cold outside this morning. Be sure to dress warmly and please be mindful of the signs of frostbite.
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OttawaPublicHealth.ca/ColdWeather
National Non-Smoking Week 

January 16th, 2024

​This week (January 15-19) marks the 47th annual celebration of National Non-Smoking Week (NNSW), which provides an opportunity to encourage people who smoke to consider joining thousands of others as they take their first steps to becoming smoke-free. Counselling and medication, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) like the patch, is the best support we can recommend to anyone trying to quit. Here are a few services and supports that Ottawa Public Health recommends:

  • Telehealth Ontario provides no cost and confidential smoking cessation service 24 hours, seven days a week.  Registered nurses at Telehealth can help develop a quit-smoking plan, answer questions and provide referrals to programs and services in the community, including information on how to access quit-smoking products. For help to quit smoking, residents can call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. For information and /or referral to support services and resources in Ottawa and across the province, residents can connect with Connex Ontario 1-866-531-2600 or visit their website Mental Health & Addiction Treatment Services | Connex Ontario


  • For OHIP covered tailored quit plans and one-on-one support in a nurse led clinic, residents can register with the Quit Smoking Program by calling 613-696-7069 or emailing [email protected]

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What about vaping?
Completely substituting cigarettes for vapour products reduces exposure to numerous toxicants and carcinogens. However, vapour products are not harmless and the long-term health effects are unknown. In addition, there is a lack of evidence that using vapour products as a smoking cessation aid is effective. If a person does decide to use vaping products to reduce or to quit smoking, counselling can help. They can reach out to one of the services listed above.  Please visit Ottawa Public Health’s website at  www.ottawapublichealth.ca/quitsmoking.
December 14th, 2023

OPH recognizes that navigating the healthcare system can be complex, and barriers to access can have significant impacts on individuals' well-being. Read our Make the Best Call fact sheet and learn about the services available to help support someone facing healthcare challenges, particularly those residents that do not have access to a family physician or nurse practitioner. Some of those services are listed below:
 
Ontario Health 811  
 
A free, secure and confidential service you can call or access online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get health advice from a registered nurse or to find health services or information. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-0007. You can visit Health 811 for more information.  
 
211 is here to help! 
 
Dial 211 for local information and referrals on community, social, government and health services. 211 is a three-digit phone number that provides free, confidential and multilingual information and referrals to clients looking for community and social services in Ottawa.  You can visit 211Ontario.ca for more information. 
 
Neighbourhood Health & Wellness Hubs
  
OPH works with the City of Ottawa and community partners to deliver integrated services closer to where people live, by providing additional access to drop-in health and social services at no cost. There are currently 13 Neighborhood Health and Wellness Hubs that offer a range of services, including:  
  • COVID-19, flu, school and routine childhood vaccination  
  • dental screenings  
  • mental health and substance use health services and wellbeing support 
  • parenting support and  
  • financial assistance services.  
 
The hubs provide an opportunity to speak in-person with OPH and/or City of Ottawa staff. No appointment is needed. Different services are offered at different locations.  More information can be found at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NeighbourhoodHub. 


September 27th, 2023
September 30th marks the 3rd annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR).

First recognized in 2021, this day was established by the federal government in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #80. It is intended to honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, the survivors, their families, and communities. Coinciding with Orange Shirt Day, it is an opportunity to bring awareness to the painful legacy and ongoing impacts of the residential school system.

Leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, you are encouraged to take the time to learn and reflect on the meaning of this day. It is a chance to ask what individuals and organizations can do to advance Indigenous Rights and Reconciliation. In her recent book, Jody Wilson-Raybould states that True Reconciliation is achievable if we break it down into three (3) core practices – Learn, Understand, and Act.

LEARN

Learning and commemorating the truth about our collective history from a First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous perspective is a vital part of the reconciliation process. There are plenty of resources available to facilitate this learning journey. For example, read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report and books by Indigenous authors; listen to Indigenous podcasts or webinars hosted by the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health; and/or watch Indigenous films on residential schools on the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN, Sept 29 & 30).
At a more local level, consider participating at one of the many NDTR activities taking place at the Ottawa Public Library, including a film festival; and/or watch Wabano’s video about Indigenous-specific racism in healthcare. And then, reflect on the impact that colonization has had on the lives of Indigenous Peoples, and share what you have learned with colleagues, your networks, and the community at large
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UNDERSTAND

In order to effectively address injustices and harms that have occurred and continue to occur, it is critical to have a shared understanding of the True Story of colonization in Canada, as well as the contemporary lived experience, strengths and challenges of First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous Peoples. Appreciating Indigenous knowledges and worldviews, contributions to society, the diversity and distinctions within and among First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban Indigenous peoples, and the implications of racist policies such as the Indian Act are important first steps (e.g. 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act).
Similarly, Senator Murray Sinclair believes that every Canadian has a duty to read and understand the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). It provides a roadmap to advance lasting reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It tells us what further steps must be taken to respect, recognize and protect the human rights of Indigenous peoples and to address injustices (e.g. rights to equality and non-discrimination; self-determination; lands and resources; socio-economic and political rights; culture and language).
Taking time to develop an understanding of the current issues and challenges faced by Indigenous communities and organizations is another way to demonstrate your support and commitment to Indigenous Rights and Reconciliation. This includes revelations about the harms caused by

​Indigenous identity fraud (Dr. Kim Tallbear, APTN, 2021), and peaceful protests taking place to oppose the passing of law Bill C-53. In a press conference held on September 20, 2023, First Nations Leaders voiced their concerns. If passed, the Chiefs of Ontario believe that Bill C-53 will grant rights to illegitimate groups in First Nations’ territories and undermine their Inherent, Treaty, and Aboriginal rights. They are demanding a transparent, in-depth, public investigation of Bill C-53, with the full involvement of First Nations rights-holders. Failure to do so reinforces the belief that Bill C-53 is a form of modern colonization – not a step toward true reconciliation.

Reconciliation is a shared responsibility for all Canadians that requires ACTION – not just on September 30, but every day. To start, it is important to acknowledge that justice will only occur with systemic changes. Next, consider the role that you can play to advance Indigenous health and wellbeing in Ottawa. For members of the Board of Health, actions might include:
September 6th, 2023
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has extended a multi-day heat warning due to the temperatures and humidex being very high. The hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high-risk category. It is recommended that you Download the WeatherCAN app to your mobile device to stay informed of all weather alerts.
 
Extreme heat affects everyone. The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors. Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions. Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable.

The Beat the Heat resources on the Ottawa Public Health Extreme Heat and Humidity website includes:  
 
·       A Beat the Heat factsheet that identifies the many public places people can go to cool off in Ottawa, and tips on how to cool off when it is hot outside.   
·       An interactive map of public places to cool off in Ottawa including libraries, shade structures, parks, and more.  
·       What to do if there is a power outage during a heat wave.   
·       Information on how to sign up directly for Environment and Climate Change Canada EC Alert me emails or download the WeatherCAN app for mobile devices.  
·       Who to call for advice and support when it is hot out:   
o   Call 2-1-1 for social services assistance information such as locations and to access information about day programs, meals, and how to access homeless shelters. Find out more about shelters in Ottawa.  
o   Call 3-1-1 to get assistance for someone who needs transportation to a shelter to get out of the heat.  
o   Call Ottawa Public Health 613-580-6744 for information on staying cool during a heat wave.    
o   Call 8-1-1 Health Connect Ontario for non-emergency medical advice.  
o   Call 9-1-1 for medical emergency such as heat stroke.    
·       The “Find Your Way Community Resource Guide” provides contact information for services such as shelters and drop-in centres.      
·       Printable posters from Health Canada on ways to protect you and loved ones during an extreme heat event.   
We appreciate your assistance in helping keep residents aware of ways to stay cool this summer by sharing resources and encouraging them to visit Ottawa Public Health’s Extreme Heat and Humidity web page or call at 613-580-6744. 
 
Ottawa Public Health Partner Relations
www.ottawapublichealth.ca
 
Connect with Ottawa Public Health

Please see the attached document below for information on how to stay cool. Link:

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September 5th, 2023
Back to School – Vaccination, Dental Screening and Vision Health

Vaccination
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Vaccines are one of the greatest public health accomplishments of the 20th century. Vaccines have saved countless lives and in fact, save an estimated four million lives globally each year!

As children and youth head back to school this fall, it is an important time to ensure they are up to date on their routine vaccinations. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted access to and delivery of routine childhood vaccines. In Ottawa alone, children and youth missed an estimated 40,000 doses of routine vaccines over the course of the pandemic. This means that many children are not fully protected against serious diseases that can have long-term impacts and result in hospitalization and even death. As children head back to school and resume their regular activities, getting caught up on vaccines not only helps protect each child, but it also helps protect the people they spend time with too. It helps keep children in school and doing the activities they love!
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In Ontario, all children attending school need to be immunized against nine diseases including diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, meningococcal disease, whooping cough and chickenpox (for children born in 2010 or later). Over the past year, Ottawa Public Health has been working to notify families if their child’s record with Ottawa Public Health shows a vaccine is missing. This year, Ottawa Public Health will mail notices to children born in 2006 and 2016 who are missing one or more vaccines required for school.
 
What is Ottawa Public Health asking parents to do?  
Don’t have a regular health care provider or are having trouble seeing one?
Ottawa Public Health is working with community partners, including the Kids Come First Health Team and organizations from across Eastern Ontario, to help make it easier for children and youth to catch up on routine vaccines. Parents can now:
  • Book an appointment on the Kids Come First website to review their child’s vaccine record or receive vaccines.
 
Alternatively, Ottawa Public Health is offering routine vaccines through its Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs, on a walk-in basis. Parents can drop into one of the locations to review their child’s vaccine record and/or receive vaccines.

Dental Screening

Last school year, close to 10% of children screened in elementary schools presented with urgent dental needs such as cavities, signs of infection, and/or pain. School surveillance of grade 2 students and dental screening in other grades will resume in September. This year, three new schools will be offered dental screening services by our OPH registered dental hygienists, for a total of 228 elementary schools. The dental screening is done using a disposable tongue depressor and a flashlight to look into the child’s mouth.
 
The dental screening is important as it helps identify children in pain and those who require urgent dental care. The school dental hygienists support families with referrals to our OPH dental clinics or to a private dental office and can help low-income families apply to the Healthy Smiles Ontario program.
 
Dental problems can affect children in different ways, by leading to issues such as poor concentration and learning difficulties in school, limited choice of foods due to inability to chew properly, lower self-esteem and much more.
 
Vision Health

In September, OPH will distribute vision health cards to over 16,000 junior and senior kindergarten students. This vision health information will remind parents of the importance of taking their children to the optometrist for an annual eye exam. Vision problems can affect children’s learning abilities, social development, self-esteem and hand-eye coordination. If not identified early, some problems can permanently reduce a child's vision.
 
During Children’s Vision Month (October), OPH will be publishing a series of posts on social media (Facebook/Instagram), supported by a social media advertising campaign. This campaign will educate the audience on the importance of visual health, while also encouraging parents to take their children to their local optometrist for an annual eye exam.
 
On October 19, a local optometrist will be invited to be a guest on Parenting in Ottawa’s Facebook and Instagram pages. The optometrist will address questions and concerns about common issues around children’s vision and eye health.
August 30th, 2023
​International Overdose Awareness Day – August 31, 2023
 
International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdoses and remember, without stigma, those who have experienced drug-related harms, including fatal overdoses and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.   
 
The 2023 theme “Recognizing those people who go unseen” is about acknowledging people in our communities who are affected by overdose but might go unseen in the crisis. To learn more, please visit https://www.overdoseday.com/  
 
Ottawa will be recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, at the Canadian Human Rights Monument (220 Elgin St., outside Heritage Building at Ottawa City Hall) between 11:30 am-1:00 pm, hosted by Sandy Hill Community Health Centre and open for public and community attendance. Ottawa Public Health’s Harm Reduction and Addiction and Substance Use Health teams will be attending for support, to provide overdose prevention and response training and access to naloxone kits.  
 
For more information about Ottawa’s local context and for supports and services, please visit www.StopOverdoseOttawa.ca  
August 22nd, 2023
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First mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus this season
Ottawa – Ottawa Public Health reminds residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Mosquito trapping and testing — components of Ottawa Public Health’s West Nile virus (WNV) program — have confirmed the first positive mosquito pools by lab result. Three mosquito testing pools indicate WNV is present in Ottawa; these are the first positive testing pools since the annual monitoring season began June 1, 2023. 
 
Mosquitoes can pose a risk for WNV infection until the first hard frosts of the fall. Residents are reminded that even in late summer, there remains an increased risk for human WNV infection. Residents are also asked to help reduce mosquito populations around their homes by getting rid of all outdoor objects that can hold water, where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.
 
West Nile virus is an infection spread primarily by the northern house mosquito (Culex pipiens) that, in a small number of cases, can cause serious illness. Most people will not develop any symptoms if infected, but about 20 per cent may experience flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches and, possibly, a rash. The risk of more serious illness — occurring in less than one per cent of infections, in which WNV invades the central nervous system — increases with age, with older adults, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems being at higher risk.
 
As of August 21, there have been no reports of Ottawa residents with confirmed or probable infection with West Nile virus this year, however two human cases have been reported in Ontario to date for the 2023 season.
Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites by:

  • Applying a Health Canada-approved mosquito repellent containing DEET or icaridin to exposed skin and to clothing;
  • Protecting yourself especially between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, and at all times in or near shady, bushy, or wooded areas;
  • Wearing light-coloured, tightly woven, loose-fitting clothing, including long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes and socks to protect exposed skin;
  • Making sure all windows and doors in your home have well-fitting screens that are in good condition;
  • Reducing standing water sites around your home, such as bird baths, toys, flowerpot saucers, swimming pool covers, old tires, wheelbarrows, buckets, and cans – anything that can hold water for seven days or longer;
  • Keeping all openings to rain barrels covered with screen mesh at all times.
 
Spending time outdoors has many health benefits. Urban settings, including on and around home porches, apartment balconies, in gardens, and in local parks are ideal for the mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus. Be sure to protect yourself against mosquito bites around your home.
 
Ottawa Public Health’s proactive plan to deal with West Nile virus includes weekly surveillance and, when necessary, mosquito larvicidal treatment of standing water on City property, such as ditches and storm water management ponds. Ottawa Public Health also regularly applies larvicide in City-owned roadside storm sewer catch-basins to reduce the mosquito population.
 
Visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/WestNileVirus to learn more about West Nile Virus.
 
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
August 17th, 2023
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Ottawa Public Health reminds eligible residents to get vaccinated against mpox (formerly known as monkeypox)

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) would like to remind eligible residents at risk of contracting mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) to complete a two-dose vaccination series of Imvamune® as soon as possible. This reminder comes as OPH is following up with two individuals who recently tested positive for mpox in Ottawa. No individuals in Ottawa have tested positive for mpox since October 2022. It is believed the infections were acquired locally.
 
Anyone can contract mpox. Currently, most affected by mpox are men who have sex with men. There is a vaccine to prevent the acquisition of mpox. To find out who is eligible to receive a two-dose series of the Imvamune® vaccine and to book an appointment for vaccination, please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/MPOX.
 
Ottawa Public Health is working closely with local partners such as MAX Ottawa and the AIDS Committee of Ottawa to encourage eligible individuals who have not been fully vaccinated against mpox with two doses of vaccine, to get their first dose or second dose of the vaccine at one of OPH’s immunization clinic as soon as possible. Individuals who have received a first dose can get their second dose at least 28 days after their first dose.
 
There is no cost to receive the vaccine and an OHIP card is not required. Eligible residents who are travelling in the near future are also encouraged to get vaccinated before leaving. The vaccine becomes most effective after two weeks.
 
For a list of clinic locations, vaccination eligibility, and or to book yourself an appointment, visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/MPOX. Vaccination can protect against the mpox virus and can help reduce serious symptoms. Ottawa Public Health encourages everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated for protection. The sooner the better.
 
About mpox

Mpox is a viral illness that spreads from person to person through contact with infected lesions, skin blisters, body fluids or respiratory secretions. It can also be transmitted by contact with materials contaminated with the virus (e.g., clothing, bedding) and through bites or scratches from infected animals. At this time, mpox has spread mostly between people who have had close/intimate or sexual contact with a person who has the virus. The virus does not spread through casual contact. Anyone can get infected and spread mpox if they come into close contact with someone who has the virus, regardless of sex or gender, sex practices or sexual orientation, race or ethnicity.
 
Mpox symptoms usually start five to 21 days after exposure and can include fever, headache, muscle aches, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, rash, or blisters on the skin. Most people recover from mpox on their own without treatment.
July 28th, 2023

Do you have a health-related question? Here are some services that can help! 
 
Neighbourhood Health & Wellness Hubs
  
OPH works with the City of Ottawa and community partners to deliver integrated services closer to where people live, by providing additional access to drop-in health and social services at no cost. There are currently 15 Neighborhood Health and Wellness Hubs that offer a range of services, including:  
  • COVID-19, flu, school and routine childhood vaccination  
  • dental screenings  
  • mental health and substance use health services and wellbeing support 
  • parenting support and  
  • financial assistance services.  
 
The hubs provide an opportunity to speak in-person with OPH and/or City of Ottawa staff. No appointment is needed. Different services are offered at different locations.  
More information can be found at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NeighbourhoodHub. 
  
Ontario Health 811  
 
A free, secure and confidential service you can call or access online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get health advice from a registered nurse or to find health services or information. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-0007. You can visit Health 811 for more information.  
 
211 is here to help! 
 
Dial 211 for local information and referrals on community, social, government and health services. 211 is a three-digit phone number that provides free, confidential and multilingual information and referrals to clients looking for community and social services in Ottawa.  You can visit 211Ontario.ca for more information. 
July 13th, 2023

Rat Control Measures

Rats are common pests that can damage property, contaminate food, and spread disease, so it’s important to prevent infestations. By-law and Regulatory Services within the Emergency and Protective Services department (EPS), the Public Works and Environmental Services department (PWES), and Ottawa Public Health (OPH) work collaboratively in responding to rat and rodent control issues. 
 
The first step to deal with rat issues is to contact 311. If the rat issue is on public property, including in sewers, a Service Request will be issued to PWES. If the issue is on private property, 311 will issue a Service Request for a Property Standards review from By-Law and Regulatory Services. Bylaw and Regulatory Services administers the Property Standards By-law, which requires that residential and non-residential properties be maintained free of vermin, including rats and rodents. 
 
The role of Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is largely educational in nature. OPH provides advice and guidance to those experiencing a rodent infestation on their property or in their home. As well, rodent issues are addressed during regular public health inspections conducted at inspected facilities located in your neighborhood, including restaurants, grocery stores, corner stores, etc.  
 
On the OPH website, you will find a Rat Control page with resources and advice on how best to protect your property and home from rats and other rodents, including a guide for property owners and tenants, Preventing Rats on Your Property. This material is available in French, English, Somali and Arabic and make use of pictures and information to help you understand the steps that can be taken to address the rat issue. Residents can call 613-580-6744 and speak with a Public Health Inspector to discuss the educational material located on our website.  
 
Implementing control measures on one’s own property is the responsibility of the property owner. The owner is recommended to refer to the educational guidance on our website and may elect to hire a professional pest control company for assistance. 

July 4th, 2023

​Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued a multi-day heat warning starting today, July 4th, 2023, due to the temperatures and humidex being very high. Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high-risk category. It is recommended that you Download the WeatherCAN app to your mobile device to stay informed of all weather alerts.
 
Extreme heat affects everyone. The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors. Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions. Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable.
 
There are many public places residents and visitors can cool off in Ottawa including splash pads, wading pools, swimming pools, parks, libraries, and community buildings. The public is welcome to seek access to air conditioning at any City facility during regular hours of operation.
 
The Beat the Heat resources on the Ottawa Public Health Extreme Heat and Humidity website includes:   
·       A Beat the Heat factsheet that identifies the many public places people can go to cool off in Ottawa, and tips on how to cool off when it is hot outside.   
·       An interactive map of public places to cool off in Ottawa including City pools, splash pads, libraries, shade structures, parks, and more.  
·       What to do if there is a power outage during a heat wave.   
·       Information on how to sign up directly for Environment and Climate Change Canada EC Alert me emails or download the WeatherCAN app for mobile devices.  
·       Who to call for advice and support when it is hot out:   
o   Call 2-1-1 for social services assistance information such as locations and to access information about day programs, meals, and how to access homeless shelters. Find out more about shelters in Ottawa.  
o   Call 3-1-1 to get assistance for someone who needs transportation to a shelter to get out of the heat.  
o   Call Ottawa Public Health 613-580-6744 for information on staying cool during a heat wave.    
o   Call 8-1-1 Health Connect Ontario for non-emergency medical advice.  
o   Call 9-1-1 for medical emergency such as heat stroke.    
·       The “Find Your Way Community Resource Guide” provides contact information for services such as shelters and drop-in centres.      
·       Printable posters from Health Canada on ways to protect you and loved ones during an extreme heat event.   
We appreciate your assistance in helping keep residents aware of ways to stay cool this summer by sharing resources and encouraging them to visit Ottawa Public Health’s Extreme Heat and Humidity web page or call at 613-580-6744. 
June 26th, 2023
Drowning Prevention/Water Safety

Summer is upon us and pools, beaches and water parks are now open.
Did you know that drowning can occur in as little as 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water?
There are many things you can do to keep you and your family safe around water. Here are some important water safety tips:

  • Stay within arm’s reach of children at all times, when in and around water
  • Ensure children and weaker swimmers are wearing a life jacket or a personal floatation device when, in and around water
  • Distraction free supervision - don’t text, read or run in and out of the house when children are near or in water
  • Ensure that your backyard pool is not accessible to children by using multiple layers of protection (e.g.: fences, self-closing gates)
  • Don’t consume drugs or alcohol when supervising and swimming with children
  • Keep safety equipment and a phone close
  • Register yourself and your family in swimming lessons. Swimming is a life skill that lasts a lifetime.
 
For more information on water safety, please visit: Ottawa Public Health and https://www.lifesavingsociety.com/water-safety.aspx
 
It’s beach season!

Daily water sampling at the City of Ottawa’s supervised beaches began on Saturday June 17.
Water quality results are available at https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/beaches. You can also find the most recent results on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Every day our summer students take five samples from each supervised beach to a lab for testing. That will be 1440 samples, or 288 litres of water, this year!

Our students make observations around water clarity, wind speed and direction, wave action, and bird activity. They also analyze rainfall and water level data to help us make the best predictions of water quality that we can.

When the most recent results for water quality fail to meet Provincial standards we issue a swimming advisory, telling the public that swimming is not recommended at those locations.

Other seasonal inspection work includes outdoor pool, splash pad and wading pool inspections. There are over 50 wading pools and 150 splash pads inspected every summer!
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Beaches, outdoor pools, wading pools, and splash pads are all great places to cool off on a hot summer day.
June 6th, 2023
Here's some important information from Ottawa Public Health regarding the pollution outside. Please everyone stay safe! 

Link: ​Outdoor Air Pollution - Ottawa Public Health
May 31st, 2023
Five Ways to Beat the Heat in Ottawa 2023
When the temperature and humidity are high, our bodies can overheat, especially in the first few days of hot weather while our bodies adjust. Here are some ways to stay cool even if you don’t have air conditioning. Before you head out, check the linked websites for opening dates, locations, fees, and hours of service! 
 
1.Cool off with water

Take cool baths and showers as often as needed or soak hands or feet in cool water to lower your body temperature. If you cannot shower or bathe easily, sponge often with cool wet towels. Focus on cooling the back of the neck, under the arms and groin area.
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Where to go:
  • Find a local pool or beach.  The City of Ottawa has
    • 55 wading pools and 145 splash pads
o   13 indoor pools and 9 outdoor pools
o   3 beaches (Westboro Beach closed in 2023 for redevelopment)
  • Visit a local Provincial Park or Conservation Area beach

2. Cool off in the shade

Shade from a tree is cooler than shade from a building that holds heat. Bring a parasol or an umbrella, sunscreen, and water in case you need to wait outdoors in the heat, such as in a lineup.
Where to go: 3. Cool off in an air-conditioned space

If you have air conditioning, use it during a heat wave to keep your home cool. Heat that builds up in buildings stays for days, even when cooler outdoor temperatures arrive.
Where to go:
4.Cool off with a fan

Fans keep you cool by speeding up evaporation of your sweat. Fans do not cool the air; they just move it around. For this reason, use a fan along with windows or doors that are open to the outside or another space with cooler air. Drink lots of fluids so you perspire normally and wear minimal clothing indoors—cotton is a good choice in hot weather.
  • Mist or wet your skin or clothing with water to help cool off faster when using a fan.
  • Using a fan in a closed room without windows or doors open to the outside or cooler space is less effective.
    • If it’s hotter inside (and cooler outdoors):
      • Open windows when the outdoor air is cooler than the indoor air. Use a fan in or next to a window or door to bring in cooler outside air, especially at night or from a window on the shaded side of the building.
      • If you only have one fan but want cooler outside air to come in to more than one room, open windows in each of the rooms and use the fan to blow air out of a window in another room or hallway – air will be drawn into the home through the other open windows.
      • If a second fan is available, use one to bring air in and the other to blow air out of the home through a different window to help move cooler air throughout the home.
    • If it’s hotter outside (and cooler inside):
      • Close windows and window coverings, especially when they get direct sun. As the temperature drops outside, reopen windows that are no longer receiving direct sunlight. Note that fans may not be enough to keep you cool when the humidity is very high, it is very hot, or your body doesn’t produce enough sweat, and you may have to seek a cool shelter. Call 2-1-1 or 3-1-1 to seek assistance in finding a cool indoor or outdoor place to go.

5. Prepare for a heat wave by planning ahead

  • Sign up for weather forecasts and alerts straight to your phone with WeatherCAN, Environment Canada’s weather app to find out when a heat warning or other extreme weather is forecast for our region. Download it now!
  • Review your workplace health and safety policy for working in hot environments and find out more about preventing heat stress at work
  • Take extra breaks from the heat if you are wearing a mask.
  • Dress in light, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and wear a hat with ventilation holes when in the sun.
  • Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, preferably water, and limit or avoid caffeine and alcohol.
  • Breastfeeding babies/children should be fed following the child’s cues. If breastfeeding, keep hydrated to produce a sufficient amount of milk.
  • Prepare meals that don’t need to be cooked in your oven and serve foods with high water content like fruits and vegetables.
  • Stay connected with people in your community who have a difficult time coping with hot weather and those who live alone and check on them regularly.

Additional information

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May 25th, 2023

West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease in Ottawa

When ticks and mosquitoes are active, they have the potential to spread infections to Ottawa area residents.

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is an infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, a bacteria transmitted through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis), most commonly during the spring, summer and fall months. If a person finds a tick on their body, they should remove it as soon as possible. The risk of Lyme disease increases the longer the tick is attached. Because blacklegged ticks in Ottawa are known to carry this bacteria, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) recommends that, if a person finds a tick on their body that has been attached more than 24 hours, they speak to a healthcare provider or pharmacist. The healthcare provider or pharmacist will provide recommendations on what to do, which may include monitoring for symptoms for the next 32 days and, if appropriate, taking post-exposure prophylaxis (antibiotics). Early signs of Lyme disease occur three to 32 days following a tick bite. This may include an expanding, circular rash, which may look like a “bull’s eye,” but is not present in all cases. Other symptoms can include fatigue (tiredness), fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle and joint pain. If untreated, the infection can cause additional rashes on other areas of the body, fatigue, weakness, and may harm the heart, liver, nerves and joints.

What is West Nile virus?

West Nile virus (WNV) is a disease primarily spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes, especially the Culex type, become infected after biting a bird with the virus and then spread the virus to humans. It can take between three and 14 days before symptoms occur after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Most people infected with WNV will remain asymptomatic, but approximately 20% will develop symptoms of usually mild (through to sometimes debilitating) febrile illness, which may include headache, fatigue, body aches, rash, nausea and vomiting. Less than 1% of those infected may develop severe neurological illness. In Ontario, locally acquired WNV occurs in the summer months, with the majority of cases occurring in August and September.

What is OPH’s Role?

OPH works to prevent Lyme disease and West Nile virus through a variety of measures, including:
  • OPH investigates every case of a person being infected with Lyme disease or WNV to identify the likely source of infection and, where appropriate, takes action to minimize further risk to the population.
  • OPH provides information to physicians to aid in clinical diagnosis.
  • OPH also conducts public education on tick and mosquito bite prevention and conducts surveillance of mosquito and tick populations.
Additionally, OPH contracts services to:
  • Apply biological larvicide (Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies israelensis – Bti) on surface waters (e.g., ditches, storm water management ponds) and chemical larvicide (methoprene) to treat non-surface waters for mosquito larvae
  • If necessary, conduct mosquito control using adulticide (malathion), based on assessment of increased transmission and risk
 
How can individuals protect themselves from these infections?

  • Apply a Health Canada approved insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin to exposed skin and clothing
  • When possible wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes, and socks to cover exposed skin
  • Tuck your pants into your socks
  • Wear light-coloured clothing to spot ticks more easily; this is also appropriate for mosquitoes as they are attracted to darker colours
  • If possible, stay on the trails when hiking in the woods and other natural areas. Enjoy mowed and maintained areas in parks and playing fields but be mindful of the borders adjacent to natural areas that may be suitable tick habitat
  • For ticks, do a "full body" check on yourself, your children, and pets. Pay careful attention around your toes, knees, groin, armpits and scalp
  • For mosquitoes, avoid being outside during dusk and dawn - periods when they are most active - and at any time in shady, wooded areas – remembering to use repellent and protective clothing if you must be out during these periods
  • Make sure all windows and doors in your home have well-fitting screens that are in good condition to prevent mosquitoes from entering
  • Mosquitoes need water to breed. Eliminate mosquitoes around personal property by reducing or eliminating areas or objects that can accumulate or retain water 
 
For more information about West Nile virus and Lyme disease, visit the OPH website at Insects, Animals and Bites - Ottawa Public Health.



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​Number of human WNV cases and positive WNV mosquito pools by year in the City of Ottawa; 2002-Nov 2022

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May 16th, 2023

Rabies Prevention in Ottawa
 
Ottawa Public Health (OPH), like every other health unit in Ontario, conducts rabies exposure investigations whenever an animal interacts with a person in such a way as to potentially expose them to Rabies. This is required by regulation under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, (Ontario Regulation 557). As, well, the provincial Rabies Protocol directs Boards of Health to receive and respond to all reported cases of potential rabies exposures on a 24/7 basis. This legal framework is designed to prevent rabies in humans by ensuring prompt exposure investigation.
Recent surveillance indicates that Ottawa and surrounding areas do not currently have terrestrial animals with rabies (only mammals carry rabies). There have, however, been confirmed cases of rabid bats. In 2022, two bats tested positive for rabies and the people exposed received appropriate and timely treatment, including rabies vaccination, to ensure that they did not acquire rabies. Since untreated rabies is almost universally fatal, OPH conducts a thorough rabies investigation for every animal exposure where there may be saliva transferred from the animal into a human’s blood stream as through a bite or scratch.

Human rabies cases in Canada are very rare, thanks to excellent prevention and control programs. Since reporting began in 1924, 25 people have died from rabies (7 cases in Ontario with the most recent being 2012 from an exposure outside the country). Prevention efforts are significant in that rabies in wild terrestrial animals and bats is endemic in Canada. The World Health Organization estimates that about 60,000 deaths occur from rabies annually (99% from domestic dogs that are unvaccinated and 40% of cases are children under 15 years of age.
Every animal bite to a human where the skin has been broken is investigated for potential rabies transmission. These investigations can take between one hour to several days to complete, depending on the circumstances that led to the exposure. Each case is risk assessed to determine whether rabies vaccination may be required. If the animal is available for observation by a public health inspector, such as in the case of an owned dog, vaccination may not be required. In these cases, the animal can be observed for a ten-day period after the exposure (once shortly after the exposure and again at the end of ten days). If the animal is alive and well at the end of the observation period, it is not a rabies risk as it would have shown symptoms of rabies or died within this time frame had it been infected with rabies. When the animal is not available for observation, OPH may recommend that the person exposed receive rabies post-exposure prophylaxis - RPEP (rabies vaccine and immune globulin). OPH works closely with the client and their health care provider, clinic or hospital to ensure that they receive RPEP within the strict timelines required to ensure the client does not acquire rabies from their exposure.

Below is a graph depicting the number of rabies calls received by OPH that required a risk assessment and follow-up.








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​OPH has seen an increase in domestic animal bites since the beginning of the pandemic. One factor that may have contributed to this increase could be due to the “Pandemic Pets” phenomenon where individuals sought animal companionship during periods when restrictions limited other types of social interactions, resulting in an overall increase in pet ownership in Ottawa.
With ongoing education to residents through OPH’s website, by making certain that our professional partners know their duty to report potential exposures (we provide an annual “duty to report” letter to Health Care Providers, Police, Paramedics, Bylaw), and other social media efforts, OPH hopes to reduce the risk of potential rabies exposures both at home and while travelling.
One very important aspect of preventing rabies is up-to-date vaccination of pets. However, there can be barriers for some pet owners due to financial challenges. OPH is hoping to be able to partner with local veterinarians and other City partners to be able to provide low-cost rabies vaccination clinics in the near future.

We can all do our part to take a bite out of rabies.
May 9th, 2023

Emergency Preparedness Week - May 7-13, 2023

Emergency Preparedness Week has been a national event for over 25 years and aims to promote awareness about the importance of knowing what to do before, during and after an emergency. We know that emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere and can affect everyone. We also know some people are impacted more than others, particularly those living in densely populated areas and those with less access to resources.
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This year OPH’s activities will highlight the importance of social capital - staying connected and leveraging networks and relationships among people within our community. When people have fewer material resources, they are less likely to be prepared for emergencies, which is where social capital fits in. When people in communities are already connected, it is easier to ask for or offer help. OPH is working to leverage and promote social capital as an emergency management strategy in priority neighborhoods, focusing on seniors living alone and the people who care for them.

As members of this community, we all have a role to play in an emergency. This week is an opportunity for us to take action to ensure we are prepared to make sure that we, along with our families and friends, and our communities are safe during an emergency. This year, the national theme is “Be prepared. Know your risks” which is intended to encourage residents to understand the risks where they live and learn about what actions they can take.

So, what can we do to be prepared and know our risks? Get to know our neighbors! A connected community is a resilient community. We can reduce health inequities by fostering connections within our communities and sharing information about how neighbors can help neighbors before, during, and after emergencies and where to go if they need further support.

Learn your risks by visiting the City of Ottawa’s Emergency Preparedness webpage: Before an emergency | City of Ottawa.
 
National Nursing Week - May 8-14, 2023
 
This year, Nursing Week runs from May 8-14 and represents a time to recognize the significant contributions of nurses throughout the lifespan and, notably, for their commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic, while responding to concurrent emergencies and maintaining core services.
 
OPH’s understanding of racism deepened during the pandemic, particularly systemic racism as the root cause of health inequities observed in Indigenous, Black and racialized communities. We would be remiss not to mention the impacts of systemic racism (anti-Black, anti-Indigenous, anti-Asian, antisemitism, and anti-Muslim) on the daily lives of Indigenous, Black, and racialized nurses and the leadership nurses are providing to transform systems.
 
As public health practice evolves to achieve a healthy, inclusive, and sustainable future, the role of nurses at OPH continues to adapt and expand to support our population’s current needs. The pandemic put a spotlight on the commitment of nurses to their work and the important role they play in the community. By working together with our citizens and using a health equity lens, nurses strive to embed prevention across the health system to maximize impact and create a healthy future for all.  
 
This year’s theme is “Our Nurses, Our Future”, highlighting the vital role nurses play in shaping decisions that impact care at local, provincial, and national levels. Public health is forward-thinking. The work nursed do now spans from the bedside to the boardroom, impacting the way we lead our lives every day to promote health now, so that our city remains safe, healthy, and thriving well into the future.

As we celebrate nursing week this year, let’s acknowledge the diverse role that nurses play to improve the current and future health and wellbeing of all.

Thank a nurse!
May 4th, 2023 

Red Dress Day (May 5) - National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Peoples

Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in Canada have been the targets of violence for far too long. We acknowledge the many families affected by the loss of their daughters, sisters, mothers, aunties, grandmothers and two-spirit family and friends. Tomorrow is intended to honour the thousands of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and gender diverse people (MMWIG2S+) in Canada by taking time to appreciate their stories, the ongoing impact on their families and communities, and the urgency to address the 231 Calls for Justice to end this targeted, gendered, and racialized violence. For many non-Indigenous Canadians, this will require rethinking commonly held stereotypes about Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people, critically examining attitudes, biases, and behaviours, and confronting Indigenous-specific racism across systems.
 
We recognize that this content may be triggering for some individuals. If you require support, we encourage you to connect with the MMWIG2S+ support call line at 1-844-413-6649. This line is available free of charge, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Indigenous crisis counselling is also offered through the Indigenous-specific Hope for Wellness Helpline at 1-855-242-3310.
 
National Mental Health week

This year, the first week of May marks the 72nd National Mental Health Week. This week is also Safety and Health Week, which provides us with another opportunity to reflect on mental health, whether that be in your personal/home life or in the workplace. Workplace Strategies for Mental Health has a variety of resources that you may find helpful. For more information on the 13 factors that affect mental health in the workplace, be sure to check out our have THAT talk videos. For information on accessing mental health supports, you can go to: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/MentalHealthAndWellness.
 
If you are in crisis, contact the Mental Health Crisis Line (24 hours a day/7 days a week) at 613-722-6914 or if outside Ottawa toll-free at 1-866-996-0991. If you have a youth in crisis, contact the Youth Services 24/7 Crisis Line (24 hours a day/7 days a week) at 613-260-2360 of if outside Ottawa toll-free at 1-877-377-7775.
 
Perinatal Mental Health: Supporting New and Expectant Parents

Perinatal Mental Health Day is a day to raise awareness of the mental health needs of expectant and new parents. Perinatal mental health refers to the mental well-being of individuals during pregnancy and the first year after childbirth. Pregnancy, childbirth and parenting are associated with many different and varied emotions, such as joy and frustration. As well, it is a transition that can sometimes be overwhelming for parents. It is not uncommon to experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns or illness during this time. In fact, according to The Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative (CPMHC), 20% of women and 10% of men will experience Perinatal mental illness such as mood and anxiety disorder. For more services in Ottawa, please visit Ottawa Public Health’s Mental Health, Addictions, Substance Use Health Services and Resources page.
 
Respiratory Virus Dashboard

We will continue to post on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Our Respiratory Virus dashboard continues to be updated every Wednesday on our main respiratory virus activity webpage: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport .
​April 27th, 2023
​
National Immunization Awareness Week
April 24th to 30th is National Immunization Awareness Week. This annual event aligns with World Immunization Week. Every year, it is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of vaccination and recognize the incredible impact vaccines have in protecting people against diseases like polio, measles, and pertussis. Check out our Immunization webpage for more information: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Immunization
 
Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health (MHASUH) Community dashboard
On April 18, OPH launched the new Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Community dashboard. This dashboard is the result of a multi-year collaboration, with the goal of improving the health status of the people of Ottawa in relation to mental health, addictions, and substance use health. This tool can be used to identify needs, inform systems and service planning, and contribute to building long-term promotion and prevention strategies in the community. To see the dashboard and learn more, please visit our website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/WellnessDashboard
 
Respiratory Virus Dashboard
We will continue to post on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Our Respiratory Virus dashboard continues to be updated every Wednesday on our main respiratory virus activity webpage: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport .
April 19, 2023

​​Healthy Babies, Healthy Children At-Home Visits
Healthy Babies Healthy Children (HBHC) is a free, voluntary, and province-wide home-visit program designed to help children in our community get the best possible start in life. The HBHC program provides services to pregnant individuals, their partners, and to families with children from birth to their transition to school.
 
Please review our Youtube video to see the impact this program had on one family. You can also find more information on our webpage
 
National Volunteer Week
Ottawa Public Health is proud to celebrate our volunteers during National Volunteer Week which takes place April 16th to the 22nd, 2023. This year’s theme is “Volunteering Weaves Us Together.”  Our volunteers strengthen our communities by their actions to support one another. We thank our volunteers for sharing their time, talent, and energy in making the City of Ottawa’s people and places healthy and thriving.
 
Bookmark the Multilingual Resources and Health hub pages for Diverse Communities
The Multilingual Resources for Diverse Communities page includes resources and videos in over 20 languages and cover a variety of health topics with a focus on COVID-19.  Resources are developed by Ottawa Public Health and resources from provincial or federal organizations are also included. Information is updated regularly so please make sure to come back and visit these pages often.
 
Website pages – Multilingual
OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVIDmultilingual
 
Health website pages in Somali, Arabic and Simplified Chinese - information, videos and resources.
Somali Hub - Ottawa Public Health
Arabic Hub - Ottawa Public Health
Chinese Hub - Ottawa Public Health
 
Website pages - Resources for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Community Members
OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FirstNationsInuitandMetis 
 
Respiratory Virus Dashboard
We will continue to post on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Our Respiratory Virus dashboard continues to be updated every Wednesday on our main respiratory virus activity webpage: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport .
March 9th, 2023

Routine Vaccinations
The re-emergence of certain vaccine preventable diseases is being seen in parts of the world and is cause for concern. OPH is monitoring the potential emergence of measles, and we are making continued efforts to increase uptake and coverage of routine childhood vaccinations. Thousands of children and youth in Ottawa are missing routine vaccinations that would protect them from measles and other vaccine preventable diseases. Vaccinations required for attending childcare and school should be kept up to date.  Parents and guardians can find out if their child is due for vaccination, and which vaccinations have already been reported to OPH, by visiting our website at ParentingInOttawa/RoutineVaccination. You are encouraged to share our Facebook and Instagram posts.
 
If you are travelling outside of Canada, ensure you are up to date on your vaccinations at least six weeks before your trip.  Visit our Measles webpage for more information.
 
Parenting in Ottawa Drop-Ins
If you have questions about your baby’s growth and development or want to know if your child is on track, Ottawa Public Health has drop-in locations across the City. You can speak to a Public Health Nurse about infant feeding, social and emotional development, healthy eating, and more. This program is available to expectant parents and parents or guardians of children up to 6 years of age. Check out our new video on Twitter and Facebook. No need for an appointment, but you can find the drop-in calendar here: ParentingInOttawa.ca/dropins
 
March is Nutrition Month
Ottawa Public Health has a team of Public Health Dietitians, who play a unique role in supporting our communities to thrive. Dietitians use the science of nutrition to help people and communities meet their healthy eating goals. We work with partners to address issues like food insecurity and to create healthier places, where people live, work and play. Registered Dietitians are regulated health professionals who apply their expertise in food and nutrition to support individuals and communities to improve their health. The work of Registered Dietitians in public health is to make the healthy choice the easier choice for everyone. Find a dietitian near you!  
 
Respiratory Virus Dashboard
We will continue to post on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Our Respiratory Virus dashboard continues to be updated every Wednesday on our main respiratory virus activity webpage: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport .
March 2nd, 2023

Black Mental Health Week (BMHW), March 1-7th 2023
BMHW is an opportunity to bring together the Ottawa Black Mental Health Coalition (OBMHC) members and community partners to share expertise and celebrate innovative leadership in mental health for African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities. The OBMHC is a network of more than 20 Black leaders in academics and health and social services, as well as community associations who have been convening to identify system changes that will improve the mental health and well-being of Black residents in Ottawa. This year, the theme for Black Mental Health Week is Exploring Stigma and Black Mental Health. The week will feature a series of speakers to uplift, inform and advance Black Mental Health.
 
On Monday, March 6th from 1:00-2:00pm, OPH will host a virtual education session on Zoom to discuss how the language we use can either hinder or help support mental health and wellness. For a detailed list of the BMHW activities, please visit the OBMHC Eventbrite page to register.
 
March is Francophonie Month. Celebrate with us! 
All over the world, Francophones and Francophiles celebrate the French language and the Francophonie during the month of March, culminating with International Francophonie Day on March 20th. At OPH, we recognize that the Francophonie is not a uniform community but rather an amazing kaleidoscope of cultures, practices, religions, and dialects that bring a richness to our community, new opportunities, visions and ways of doing things. We continue to encourage Francophones and Francophiles to be proud of who they are, of their heritage and of the contributions they bring to our organization and to our community.
 
We invite you to learn more about Francophonie Month and local resources available to you:
Les Rendez-vous de la francophonie  La Maison de la francophonie d’Ottawa 
Le Réseau des services de santé en français de l’Est de l’Ontario  
ACFO – Association des communautés francophones d’Ottawa 
 
Respiratory Virus Dashboard
We will continue to post on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Our Respiratory Virus dashboard continues to be updated every Wednesday on our main respiratory virus activity webpage: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport .
February 22nd, 2023

2021 Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey – Ottawa specific report
In follow-up to the email that was sent about the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey (OSDUHS), we want to inform you that Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has released the OSDUHS report containing Ottawa specific data. The 2021 OSDUHS report provides data on mental health, addictions and substance use health among Ottawa students during the pandemic and allows us to compare with pre-pandemic data from the 2019 cycle of OSDUHS. The report highlighted the resiliency of youth in our community to adapt to an unprecedented life event.

However, the report also highlighted that this experience has negatively impacted many youth. 
OPH continues to work with our youth-serving community partners, such as school boards, 1Call1Click and many others, to find solutions to the issues raised in the report.

The report can be found at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/mentalhealthreports.

If you or someone you know needs support, go to OttawaPublicHealth.ca/mentalhealthandwellness for resources.
February 22nd, 2023

2021 Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey (OSDUHS) results
Today, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) released their Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey (OSDUHS) results. The OSDUHS is a population survey of Ontario students in grades 7 through 12. The survey provides reliable information about the health risk behaviours, attitudes and beliefs of Ontario adolescents, and it tracks changes over time. The report is live on the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) website as a summary infographic and as a full report. OPH has partnered with CAMH to get Ottawa specific data. The analysis provides valuable data that will help inform how to best support the mental health, addictions and substance use health needs of our community. You can find that report on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/MentalHealth
 
Pink Shirt Day
Today, February 22 is Pink Shirt Day - wear pink to help bring awareness to bullying. Go to www.pinkshirtday.ca to learn more about Pink Shirt Day. Information on bullying can be found at Parenting in Ottawa and PREVNet.
 
Respiratory Virus Dashboard
We will continue to post on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Our Respiratory Virus dashboard continues to be updated every Wednesday on our main respiratory virus activity webpage: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
February 16th, 2023

Make Family Day an Active Day!
Family Day is a great opportunity to be active with your family. Being active together is fun and will help your children to be active for life. The 24-Hour Movement Guidelines advise us to move more, reduce the time that we sit, and get good sleep. They tell us how much and what kind of physical activity each age group should be doing every day for good health. Consider these activities:
​
  • Go on a family hike! Explore great trails in or near Ottawa
  • Go for a walk along the Rideau Canal or in the Byward Market
  • Go for a family swim
  • Bring your helmets and go for a family skate at a local arena or outdoor rink
  • Bring your helmets and go tobogganing on approved hills
 
February 23 is Kids Vaccine Day!
ScienceUpFirst & Children’s Healthcare Canada will be hosting an online town Hall talking about routine vaccination for children. Tune in on Thursday, February 23 at 8 pm. For more info, visit: www.scienceupfirst.com/kids-vaccines-day/
 
Pink Shirt Day
February 22 is Pink Shirt Day - wear pink to help bring awareness to bullying. Go to www.pinksirtday.ca to learn more about Pink Shirt day. Information on bullying can be found at Parenting in Ottawa and PREVNet.
 
Respiratory Virus Dashboard
We will continue to post on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Our Respiratory Virus dashboard will continue to be updated every Wednesday on our main respiratory virus activity webpage : www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport .

February 9th, 2023

Updated Low-Risk Drinking Guidelines
The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) released Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health on January 17, 2023. The report is designed to provide Canadians with current evidence-based recommendations on alcohol-related harms. The updated guidance states that consuming more than 2 standard drinks per occasion is associated with an increased risk of harms to self and others.
  • 0 drinks per week — Not drinking has benefits, such as better health, and better sleep.  
  • 2 standard drinks or less per week — At this level people are likely to avoid alcohol-related consequences for themself or others.  
  • 3–6 standard drinks per week — People have increases in health-related harms at this level. The guidelines indicate an increased risk of developing several types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer.  
  • 7 standard drinks or more per week — The risk of heart disease or stroke increases significantly at this level.  
  • Each additional standard drink radically increases the risk of alcohol-related consequences.
 
For more information on resources, programming and treatment on mental health and substance use health, please visit: Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Services and Resources - Ottawa Public Health.
 
End of Weekly Snapshot
 
We are ending the weekly snapshots. The last versions of the weekly Respiratory Virus Snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels. We will continue to post on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Our Respiratory Virus dashboard will continue to be updated on our main respiratory virus activity webpage : www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport .
 
Key Takeaways
  • The downwards trends we’ve seen over the past few weeks continue to move in the right direction. It doesn’t mean we can let our guard down, but it is encouraging.
  • It’s still important to use your layers of protection, especially as we move through the winter months. Masks, COVID-19 vaccines & boosters, flu vaccines, staying home when sick, they all work.
  • As always, you can find info about eligibility & intervals for flu or COVID-19 vaccines and COVID-19 treatment options on our website OttawaPublicHealth.ca
February 3rd, 2023

In light of the cold weather expected this evening, OPH would like to share information regarding places where people can warm up. Ottawa has six emergency shelters that are available to those who may be experiencing homelessness.
 
The Salvation Army operates a Mobile Outreach Van and responds to calls made to the City's Call Line.  They encourage people to seek indoor shelter and are able to transport them to places they can seek refuge such as emergency shelters.  In addition, they have warm clothing and other resources. 
 
The City's 3-1-1 Line is available to respond to calls 24 hours a day. Calls are answered by the City of Ottawa Call Centre on a priority basis and referred to appropriate service providers. 9-1-1 is available for emergency situations.
 
Ottawa Public Health has an interactive map of places to warm up during the day in Ottawa on the OPH Cold Weather website.  You can enter an address with a street number and street name and get a list of the 20 closest warm spaces where everyone is welcome.​

Ottawa Public Health issues Frostbite Advisories (-25 windchill or colder) and Warnings (-35 C windchill or colder) via social media and by email to community agencies that assist people at risk during cold weather to alert them when Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) forecasts windchill values at or below these thresholds.

More information is available on Ottawa Public Health's website:   https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/professionals-and-partners/extreme-cold-weather-assistance-to-homeless-persons.aspx

OPH is very concerned for the health and safety of people experiencing homelessness during extreme weather, such as what we are experiencing now.  The City is closely monitoring the situation right now to ensure that the right supports are in place.

February 2nd, 2023

Black History Month
February is Black History Month. Throughout the month, there are activities and events highlighting the contributions and achievements of Black Canadians While it is important to learn about the history of Black people in Canada and celebrate their achievements, we should also use the opportunity to address systemic racism that erased Black people from the history of Canada in the first place.
This month provides an opportunity to reflect on our respective roles and to challenge ourselves to go beyond learning about notable Black individuals by marking Black History Month in a more meaningful and impactful way. Below are some recommendations for self-guided learning:


​The Ottawa Public Library also invites residents to explore and reflect on how Black communities have resisted oppression in the past and today through a variety of activities.
 
Weekly Snapshot and Dashboard
Our weekly Respiratory Virus Snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitterv and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Check out the dashboard displaying information about respiratory virus activity: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
 
Key Takeaways
  • Our monitoring indicators continue to show an encouraging picture in terms of the overall levels of respiratory viruses circulating in Ottawa; though the levels of COVID-19 are still high. 
  • Vaccination (flu & COVID-19), wearing masks in indoor public places & staying home when sick remain our best tools at limiting the spread of these viruses. 
  • If you have questions about eligibility or intervals for flu or COVID-19 vaccines, or about COVID-19 treatment options, our website has helpful info for you OttawaPublicHealth.ca. If you prefer talking to humans, you can call us at 613-580-6744 and chat with one of our amazing nurses. 
  • Don’t forget: you can find a complete breakdown of this week’s monitoring indicators on our Respiratory Virus dashboard, which is updated every Wednesday at 12:30pm: http://OttawaPublicHealth.ca/VirusReport
January 26th, 2023

​Routine Vaccination for Children at Neighbourhood Health & Wellness Hubs
Routine vaccinations protect people and those around them against diseases like measles and polio, and are required for school and daycare attendance. For children and youth who are facing barriers to accessing routine vaccinations in the community, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is helping them get caught up on their vaccines. In addition to Ottawa Public Health’s Family Vaccination Clinics, four Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs now offer routine vaccinations. All vaccines at these clinics are offered at no cost, and an Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card is not required.
A reminder to update immunization records by reporting them Ottawa Public Health. Visit ParentingInOttawa.ca/immunizations
 
Weekly Snapshot and Dashboard
Our weekly Respiratory Virus Snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Check out the dashboard displaying information about respiratory virus activity: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
 
Key Takeaways
  • Our monitoring indicators continue to paint an encouraging picture of our overall situation, though it’s important to note that while many of our indicators are in decline, there are still high levels of COVID-19 circulating in Ottawa. 
  • The layers of protection we’ve all been using throughout these winter months are still helpful in reducing the spread of these viruses. Wearing high-quality & well-fitted masks, staying home when sick & getting your vaccines (flu & COVID-19) help keep you and our community safe. 
  • If you have questions about eligibility or intervals for flu or COVID-19 vaccines, or about COVID-19 treatment options, you can find info on our website OttawaPublicHealth.ca, or you can also call us at 613-580-6744 and one of our wonderful nurses would be happy to chat with you. 
  • As always, you can find a more detailed breakdown of this week’s monitoring indicators on our dashboard: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/VirusReport
January 19th, 2023

National Non-Smoking Week January 15 to 21 
This week (January 15-21) marks the 46th annual celebration of National Non-Smoking Week (NNSW), which provides an opportunity to encourage people who smoke to consider joining thousands of others as they take their first steps to becoming smoke-free. Counselling and medication, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) like the patch, is the best support we can recommend to anyone trying to quit. Here are a few services and supports that Ottawa Public Health recommends:   
What about vaping as a cessation aid?  
There is a lack of evidence that using vapour products as a smoking cessation aid is effective. If a person does decide to use vaping products to quit smoking, counselling can help. They can reach out to one of the services listed above.  
For more information about other resources to help Ottawa residents quit smoking, please visit Ottawa Public Health’s website at www.ottawapublichealth.ca/quitsmoking.  
 
Weekly Snapshot and Dashboard
Our weekly Respiratory Virus Snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Check out the dashboard displaying information about respiratory virus activity: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
 
Key Takeaways
  • While our indicators are indeed showing a decrease since last week, which is encouraging, there are still high levels of respiratory viruses circulating in the community. Please visit our dashboard for more detailed data: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport 
  • Every layer of protection matters, especially during these cold winter months. And every action helps reduce the risks of these viruses continuing to spread. It all still matters. 
  • Every single person who wears a high quality, well-fitted mask in public settings makes a difference. Every person who stays home when sick, every person who gets their flu vaccine, every person who gets their bivalent COVID-19 booster(s)…they all make a difference. 
  • While we’re on that, we’d like to acknowledge & thank every single one of the hundreds of thousands of Ottawa residents who’ve come out to receive their COVID-19 booster dose(s). Thank you for helping to protect each other. 
  • If you have questions about eligibility or intervals for flu or COVID-19 vaccines, or about COVID-19 treatment options, you can find answers on our website OttawaPublicHealth.ca, or you can call us at 613-580-6744 & one of our wonderful nurses would be happy to chat with you.
January 12th, 2023

Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs
Ottawa Public Health offers free drop-in services to all residents of Ottawa at our accessible Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs. Find updated information on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NeighbourhoodHubs
 
Reduce Your Risk of Falling
Anyone can fall. But as we age, our risk of falling becomes greater. The first step to avoiding falls is to understand what causes them. Poor balance, decreased muscle and bone strength, and winter snow and ice can increase your chance of falling. Staying safe and on your feet is a matter of taking some steps to protect yourself. For more information, visit Ottawapublichealth.ca
 
Here are some resources to help reduce your risk of having a fall. 
Weekly Snapshot and Dashboard
Our weekly Respiratory Virus Snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Check out the dashboard displaying information about respiratory virus activity: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
 
Key Takeaways
  • We continue to see high levels of respiratory viruses circulating in our community, and we are still seeing a concerning increase in the levels of COVID-19.
  • Between the presence of these viruses, and new COVID-19 variants emerging, it’s very important to do everything you can to protect yourself and those around you.
  • This is especially important for those at higher risk. Overall risk increases with age, and respiratory viruses can also be more difficult for those with complex medical needs & those who are immunocompromised.
  • If you’re going to be in an indoor public setting, wearing a well-fitted high-quality mask will go a long way towards helping to keep you & the people around you safer from virus transmission.
  • Same goes with staying home when sick, especially with school resuming. If you’re feeling sick, please stay home to protect those around you.
  • Lastly, get your flu vaccine & stay up-to-date on your COVID-19 vaccines. The bivalent booster offers significant protection against severe illness and hospitalization...protection you’ll want to have as we get through these colder months.
January 10th, 2023

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January 5th, 2023

Reminder
If you plan on visiting a loved one in a long-term care or retirement home, screen for symptoms, stay home if you feel sick, and if you feel well, wear a well-fitting mask during your visit. If you have any respiratory symptoms, remember to isolate until your symptoms have been improving for 24 hours and wear a mask for 10 days after the start of symptoms. More information on isolation and mask wearing can be found on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/IsolationInstructions
 
Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs
We’ve updated our website! In collaboration with city and community partners, Ottawa Public Health offers free drop-in services to all residents of Ottawa at our accessible Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs. Find updated information on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NeighbourhoodHubs
 
Weekly Snapshot and Dashboard
Our weekly Respiratory Virus Snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Check out the dashboard displaying information about respiratory virus activity: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
 
Key Takeaways
·       COVID-19 and RSV levels in the community are increasing and we continue to see high levels of Flu circulating in our community. A detailed breakdown of our monitoring indicators is updated weekly at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
  • After a busy holiday season, you can help keep others well by screening yourself for symptoms and staying home if you’re feeling sick. Please keep wearing a well-fitting mask in indoor public settings and outdoor crowded spaces.  
  • What may be a sore throat for you could lead to severe illness for someone else. Respiratory viruses can be especially difficult for those with complex medical needs and those who are immunocompromised, and risk increases with age. If planning to visit a loved one who’s at higher risk, please wear a mask and screen yourself for symptoms before you leave home.
​December 29th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot and Dashboard
Our weekly Respiratory Virus Snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. Check out the dashboard displaying information about respiratory virus activity: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
 
Key Takeaways
·       We continue to see high levels of flu, COVID-19 and RSV circulating in our community. You can find a more detailed breakdown of our monitoring indicators on our new dashboard, which is updated weekly. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport  
·       Many of you will have gatherings planned in the coming days, including New Year’s Eve celebrations. We know many are looking forward to these events, and it can be hard to cancel on friends & family, but if you’re sick, attending a gathering puts everyone at risk. If you’re not feeling well, please stay home & protect those you care about.  
·       Wearing a well-fitted mask is still important when in any crowded and/or indoor public setting – like shopping malls or theatres. 
  • Respiratory virus symptoms for some, can present much more severely in others. The risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death increases with age. If planning to visit a long-term care home, retirement home or an older loved one, please wear a mask and screen yourself for symptoms before you leave home.  
  • Same goes with getting your flu vaccine & staying up to date on your recommended COVID-19 vaccines.  
December 22nd, 2022
December 20th, 2022
December 16th, 2022

Holiday Messaging
As we prepare for holiday gatherings, we need to continue to assess our own level of risk and the risk for those around us to make informed decisions. Vaccination is the most effective way you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the most serious effects of respiratory illnesses. Today, the Province announced that all Ontarians aged five and over are eligible to book a bivalent booster dose starting December 21. Read more about why and when you should get a booster dose (Ontario.ca/COVIDbooster) and your flu shot (OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Flu)

Individual actions can add up to population-level protection when we use multiple layers of protection:
  • Masking: Wear a well-fitted mask in indoor public settings such as schools and child care, grocery stores, malls, music venues and museums.
  • Vaccinations: Anyone 6 months and older should stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, including a fall booster for anyone 5 years of age and older and a fall influenza vaccine. Anyone aged 5 and older can receive their COVID-19 booster and flu vaccine at the same time. Check your local pharmacy for vaccination appointments.
  • Stay home if sick: Monitor for symptoms. Stay home, even if symptoms are mild, and until you are feeling better.
  • Clean your hands: Use hand sanitizer or wash hands often.
  • Clean surfaces: Clean commonly touched surfaces frequently.
  • Gatherings: Screen for symptoms before attending or hosting a gathering and stay home if you are sick. If hosting a gathering, consider holding it outdoors or opening windows, especially if individuals will be removing masks to eat or drink. You can also encourage those with which you are gathering to be up to date on their vaccines.
 
The holidays can be a difficult time for many. Check in with your loved ones and neighbours. If you or someone you know is having trouble coping – there are resources to help. Learn more about local mental health and substance use resources in Ottawa at: Mental Health and Substance Use Health Resource List.
 
Weekly Snapshot and Dashboard
Going forward, our weekly snapshot will look a little different. We will be adding information about RSV and flu. These weekly snapshots, now titled “Respiratory Virus Snapshot”, will still be shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus. An entirely new dashboard displaying information about respiratory virus activity will be featured in the snapshot. You can view the dashboard here: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
 
Flu and Respiratory Virus season
Ottawa Public Health continues to inform the public of the levels of respiratory viruses in our community – through initiatives like our Risk Reduction webpage, Weekly Snapshot, COVID-19 Dashboard and weekly Flu Report.
 
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels of COVID-19 are high and increasing
  • Wastewater virus detection levels of RSV are very high and increasing
  • Wastewater virus detection levels of Influenza are very high and increasing
  • Per cent positivity of COVID-19 is high and increasing
  • Per cent positivity of RSV is moderate and decreasing
  • Per cent positivity of Influenza is high and decreasing
  • Outbreaks due to COVID-19 are very high and increasing
  • Outbreaks due to Influenza are moderate and decreasing
·       Outbreaks due to other respiratory viruses are moderate and increasing
 
Key Takeaways
  • The levels of respiratory viruses circulating in our community remain high, and we’re still seeing the increase in COVID-19 wastewater and % positivity levels that we saw last week.
  • In these winter months, every single layer of protection matters that much more. These layers include wearing a well-fitted mask when needed, washing your hands, & staying home when sick...which is especially true when it comes to holiday gatherings. If you’re sick, don’t go.
  • Speaking of the holidays – now’s the time to get your flu vaccine & your COVID-19 bivalent booster. These vaccines are available in many places throughout our community. Learn more on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca
  • It’s always been our goal to give you as much information as we can to help you make informed decisions about your levels of risk. And so, we’ve launched a brand-new respiratory virus dashboard. This dashboard will be updated every Wednesday at 12pm, and it will be a key part of our weekly snapshot moving forward. You can view it here: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FluReport
December 9th, 2022

Kids Come First
The Kids Come First Health Team consists of over 60 organizations, nearly 1,100 physicians, and child, youth, family and caregiver partners who deliver services in ways that matter to children, youth, and families. Kids Come First has shared their inaugural edition of the Kids Come First Connection newsletter containing information on care clinics, as well as a Respiratory Illness Town Hall December 12, 2022. To find out more about the initiative, please visit KidsComeFirst.ca
 
The Kids Come First Care Clinic is available for in-person assessment and care of children and youth with acute illnesses, which include a fever, cough, or runny nose. This service is available for those without access to an in-person appointment with a primary care provider. Please note that the clinic is by appointment only. For additional information on the Kids Come First and other assessment centres, please visit Cheo.on.ca/kidscomefirst.
 
Weekly Snapshot
Going forward, our weekly snapshot will look a little different. We will be adding information about RSV and flu. These weekly snapshots, now titled “Respiratory Virus Snapshot”, will still be shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.
 
COVID-19 Booster Information
Vaccination is the most effective way you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the most serious effects of COVID-19. Read more about why and when you should get a booster dose: Ontario.ca/COVIDbooster
 
Monitoring Indicators
·     Wastewater virus detection levels of COVID-19 are moderate 
·     Wastewater virus detection levels of RSV are very high 
·     Wastewater virus detection levels of Influenza are very high  
·     COVID-19 per cent positivity is moderate  
·     New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate   
·     New confirmed COVID-19 outbreaks are moderate
 
Key Takeaways
  • We are still seeing high levels of respiratory viruses circulating in our community. 
  • One item to note: while the wastewater and per cent positivity levels for COVID-19 remain moderate, they are showing an increase after weeks of consistently declining. It’s a reminder that COVID-19 is still circulating and protective measures like mask-wearing and vaccination with boosters are still useful. 
  • With the holidays fast approaching, let’s all remember...as much as many of us have been looking forward to gathering with friends & family, we must stay home when sick. Show people you care about them by not exposing them to a virus. 
  • Speaking of the holidays, it takes 2 weeks for a flu vaccine to take effect. So in order to have the best possible protection this holiday season, this week is prime time to get your flu vaccine. Learn how on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Flu 
  • Apropos of nothing, it’s basically always prime time to get your COVID-19 bivalent booster, so long as you’re eligible. Find out if you’re eligible on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca​
December 1st, 2022

Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs
Our Neighbourhood Health & Wellness Hubs are made for the community, in the community. Residents can access health, mental health, community and social services at certain Hub locations, including immunizations needed for school, COVID-19 vaccination, mental health support, dental screening, Parenting in Ottawa drop-ins, as well as employment and social services. Residents can also still visit a hub to speak with a Public Health Nurse about their health questions and concerns. To learn more about the hubs, consult our Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hub web page for all locations, hours of operation and the services you can access at each. 

Weekly Snapshot
Going forward, our weekly snapshot will look a little different. We will be adding information about RSV and flu. These weekly snapshots, now titled “Respiratory Virus Snapshot”, will still be shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV infects the lungs and airways. It causes colds and is the most common cause of bronchiolitis, an inflammation of the small airways in the lung, and pneumonia in young infants and toddlers. Symptoms include coughing, runny nose, and fever. To learn more about treatment and prevention, check out this information page: Health.ca/RSV
​
COVID-19 Booster Information
Vaccination is the most effective way you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the most serious effects of COVID-19. Read more about why and when you should get a booster dose: Ontario.ca/COVIDbooster
 
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels of COVID-19 are moderate 
  • Wastewater virus detection levels of RSV are moderate
  • Wastewater virus detection levels of Influenza are very high
  • COVID-19 per cent positivity is moderate
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate 
  • New confirmed COVID-19 outbreaks are low  
 
Key Takeaways
  • The levels of respiratory viruses circulating in our community remain high.
  • It’s important to remember that the behaviours we all learned throughout the pandemic to limit the spread of COVID-19 (like wearing masks & staying home when sick) will also help limit the spread of viruses like the flu or RSV.
  • Like masks & staying home when sick, every layer of protection matters. Getting your flu vaccine and staying up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines are also important for protecting you and those around you.
  • You can find info about how to get your vaccines on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca​
November 25th, 2022

Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs
Our Neighbourhood Health & Wellness Hubs are made for the community, in the community. Residents can access health, mental health, community and social services at certain Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hub locations, including immunizations needed for school, mental health support, dental screening, Parenting in Ottawa drop-ins, as well as employment and social services. Ottawa Public Health continues to offer residents access to COVID-19 vaccination at Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs. Residents can also still visit a hub to speak with a Public Health Nurse about their health questions and concerns. To learn more about the Hubs, check out this recent story featuring the Greenboro Hub, spotlighting their collaboration with the community.
We are excited to continue to offer supports for the community in familiar and convenient locations within neighbourhoods, meeting residents where they are. 
Consult our Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hub web page for all locations, hours of operation and the services you can access at each. 

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly graphics and information of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
 
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are moderate and decreasing  
  • Per cent positivity is high and decreasing  
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and decreasing  
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and decreasing  
 
Key Takeaways
  • COVID-19, influenza and other respiratory viruses continue to circulate in the community. Wastewater virus detection levels of flu are very high and wastewater virus detection levels of RSV are moderate.  
  • CHEO continues to face unprecedented volumes of infants & children coming to the hospital with respiratory symptoms from various viruses. 
  • We can wear a well-fitting mask when in indoor public settings and crowded outdoor spaces and stay home when feeling sick to help us reduce the burden that these viruses are making in our community. 
  • Staying up to date on our COVID-19 and flu immunizations also helps increase our protection. There are many places in our community offering these vaccines, even drop-ins and family-oriented clinics. Check out OttawaPublicHealth.ca for a location closest to you. 

November, 18th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly graphics and information of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
 
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are moderate 
  • Per cent positivity is high 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate 
 
Key Takeaways
  • COVID-19 continues to circulate in the community. And the circulating levels of other respiratory viruses like influenza and RSV are high. 
  • Due to ongoing data system changeovers, data for new COVID-19 hospitalizations is not included in this week’s snapshot. 
  • As you’re likely aware, CHEO is facing unprecedented volumes of infants & children coming to the hospital w/respiratory symptoms from various viruses.  
  • Every single person who wears a well-fitted mask when in indoor and/or crowded public spaces makes a difference. Same with every person who stays home when feeling sick. 
  • We support businesses, workplaces and organizations that encourage and welcome mask wearing. It all matters. And it all helps. 
  • You can also help the situation by getting your flu shot and your COVID-19 bivalent booster (or whichever dose you’re currently eligible for). You can find info about where & how to get those on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca  ​
November 10th, 2022

OPH Flu Vaccines Clinic
OPH flu vaccine clinics have expanded their eligibility to include children aged six months to five years and their household members. Please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Flu for additional information or the following pages for information in Arabic, Chinese and Somali. 
Arabic Hub - Ottawa Public Health
Chinese Hub - Ottawa Public Health
Somali Hub - Ottawa Public Health
 
Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high 
  • Per cent positivity is high 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate 
 
Key Takeaways
  • Our monitoring indicators show that COVID-19 levels in the community remain high. 
  • Please note: while the % positivity fell from very high last week to high this week, we cannot say for sure whether the current levels are accurate due to an ongoing data system changeover.  
  • In addition to COVID, our community is seeing an increase in respiratory virus activity and CHEO has flagged unprecedented volumes of infants & children w/respiratory symptoms from various viruses. 
  • We strongly recommend wearing a well-fitted mask in any indoor and/or crowded public setting. Wearing a mask protects not just you, but those around you, too. 
  • Staying home when sick & staying up to date with vaccinations are also very important. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine 
  • ICYMI: OPH flu vaccine clinics have expanded their eligibility to include children aged 6 months to 5 years & their household members. Clinics will continue to serve those without OHIP who cannot access the vaccine through a pharmacy or healthcare provider. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Flu​
November 3rd, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   

Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high 
  • Per cent positivity is very high 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate 
 
Key Takeaways
  • The levels of COVID-19 circulating in our community remain high. 
  • The fall respiratory illness season is underway, and it will likely be a challenging one. Learn more about what you can do to protect yourself and those around you at OttawaPublicHealth.ca
  • Remember, not everyone shows symptoms, when infectious. When going to indoor and/or crowded public settings be aware of added risk and act accordingly (wear a well-fitted mask, keep your distance if you can, etc.). 
  • Staying up to date on your recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses is essential towards staying protected. Please note: the locations listed on the Provincial booking site aren’t your only options. You can go to your local pharmacy or check with your primary care provider, and we currently have 14 Neighbourhood Wellness Hubs throughout the community where you can drop-in to get a COVID-19 vaccine. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NeighbourhoodHubs 
 
November 3, 2022 Statement by Dr. Vera Etches, Medical Officer of Health
Trends across the country indicate a very active respiratory illness season is upon us and Ottawa is no exception. We know that countries in the southern hemisphere, like Australia, experienced a heightened and early influenza (flu) season. We confirmed our first influenza outbreak here in Ottawa about a month earlier than usual and lab-confirmed cases and per cent positivity are now rising. Ottawa is seeing increasing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity, particularly among children, and CHEO has flagged unprecedented volumes of infants and children with respiratory symptoms from various viruses. We are also seeing more COVID-19 transmission in the community as we enter the colder months. We predict that this respiratory season will be challenging.

The last three years have been incredibly difficult for everyone. While we have learned and adapted in many ways, our work is not over.
The good news is that vaccines are readily available in our community for both COVID-19 and flu.

The best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and the health care system is to stay up to date on all your vaccinations. This winter will be hard on our community as several respiratory viruses will be circulating simultaneously creating stressors on our community and our health care system.
Our collective efforts can make a difference. I urge everyone to get their fall COVID-19 booster and their flu vaccine. Reach out and help a friend, a neighbour or a loved one get theirs.

Effective November 1, 2022, individuals six months and older are eligible for the flu vaccine. Anyone aged two and over can receive their annual flu vaccine at one of more than 250 pharmacies across Ottawa.

This week, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) launched community flu clinics for children aged six months to two years old and their household members as well as newcomers and individuals without OHIP who are unable to access a flu vaccine through a primary care provider or pharmacy. These individuals are encouraged to book an appointment at an OPH flu vaccine clinic.

Through our ongoing community engagement work, OPH is also providing the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs for individuals who may be facing additional barriers.  
OPH and pharmacies continue to offer the COVID-19 vaccine including bivalent COVID-19 boosters, a vaccine that helps protect against circulating variants of COVID-19 and prevents against severe illness, complications and hospitalizations.

Additional actions you and your family can take to protect yourselves today, and throughout this respiratory illness season are:
  • Wash your hands often, especially after being in contact with others or being in a shared/public space
  • Cover your cough - cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or into a tissue that you dispose of
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands to prevent germs from entering your system
  • Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces like doorknobs and light switches
  • Stay home when you’re sick – do not attend work, school or childcare or high-risk settings like long term care or retirement homes and hospitals
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Choose to gather with people outside or in well-ventilated spaces
  • Wear a mask to protect against exposure to airborne and respiratory viruses in crowded and indoor spaces, and especially when you are sick or recovering from being sick
  • Make a plan in the event you or your child/children have to stay home from work, school or daycare

Should you become sick with a respiratory illness, take care and rest. Monitor your symptoms, seek immediate care – call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room – if you experience:
  • Trouble breathing, shortness of breath (like trouble finishing a sentence or trouble catching your breath)
  • Pale, grey, or blue-coloured skin, lips or nail beds
  • Trouble staying awake or difficult to wake
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest.

​We have a certain amount of control. The precautions we took individually to get through previous waves of COVID-19 can and have worked. Now is the time to implement these practices back into your daily routine to keep yourself, your family and those around you healthy.
Merci. Thank you. Meegwetch.

October 28th, 2022

Influenza PSA

Ottawa Public Health is planning for a fall and winter season with higher than usual levels of influenza (flu) in the community and an increase of COVID-19 transmission. Please see the Influenza Vaccine PSA for further information or visit Ottawa.ca/flu

Halloween messaging
This Halloween, assess your own risk and take steps to protect yourself and those around you. Wear a mask if physical distancing can’t be maintained - get creative and build a face covering into costumes! Stay home if you are sick and stay up to date with any vaccination that you are eligible to receive.
Learn more about reducing your risks here: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/ReducingRisks

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.
Check out OPH’s graphic on COVID booster doses here.
​
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high
  • Per cent positivity is very high
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate
 
Key Takeaways
  • Our monitoring indicators continue to show that the levels of COVID-19 circulating in the community are high. 
  • The respiratory flu season is here. Masks will continue to add protection in crowded spaces during this season. Wearing a mask is simple, easy, and it helps protect you and those around you. 
  • People over the age of 12 are now eligible for a bivalent COVID-19 booster. This booster will help protect you against the circulating Omicron variants. You can book an appointment, or you can drop-in to any of our clinics or neighbourhood wellness hubs. COVID-19 vaccines are also available from many pharmacies.  OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine 
  • ICYMI: as of November 1st, everyone is eligible for a flu vaccine. Check in with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider to get yours. Children 6mos-2years, Newcomers & those without OHIP can also book appts at our clinics. Read our PSA for more info.
October 20th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa

In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   

Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high 
  • Per cent positivity is very high 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate 
 
Key Takeaways
  • Our monitoring indicators show that the levels of COVID-19 in our community are high. And influenza has started to spread in the community, causing our first outbreak. 
  • If you haven’t been wearing a mask in indoor and/or crowded public settings lately, this is the time to start again. A well-fitted mask is a very effective way to protect yourself and those around you. 
  • Remember: people ending isolation after being sick should wear a mask in public for 10 days after their symptoms started. 
  • We recommend that everyone over age 5 get a fall booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Everyone over 12 is now eligible for a bivalent booster. These bivalent boosters offer better protection against the Omicron variants and will significantly reduce your risk of severe illness. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine 
  • The fall respiratory virus season is underway. You can reduce the spread of viruses like colds or the flu by washing your hands often, coughing/sneezing in your elbow and staying home when you’re sick.  
  • Flu vaccines are available to people at higher risk of severe illness now in pharmacies & primary care providers (availability may vary). They'll be available in pharmacies to people 2 years of age and older, and in primary care offices for people older than 6 months starting at the beginning of November. Further updates will be provided on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Flu 

October 13th, 2022

All Ontarians aged 12+ Eligible for Bivalent Booster

As communicated in today’s provincial announcement, everyone aged 12 and over is eligible to get a bivalent COVID-19 booster dose starting Monday, October 17 if they have completed their primary COVID-19 vaccine series. Appointments at Ottawa Public Health clinics can be booked via the provincial booking system. 
We encourage you to share our Facebook and Twitter channels with your respective networks for up-to-date information.

Influenza vaccine
Also as communicated in today’s provincial announcement, flu shots will be available through your health care provider, public health unit and in participating pharmacies, starting November 1. Flu shots may safely be given at the same time, or at any time before or after COVID-19 vaccine
Please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Influenza for the latest updates.

Monkeypox vaccine
Based on provincial guidance, individuals who received their 1st dose of the monkeypox vaccine at least 28 days ago can now receive a 2nd dose. Please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Monkeypox for further information.

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
​
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
  • Per cent positivity is very high and increasing 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and decreasing 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update
 
Key Takeaways
  • The levels of COVID-19 in our community are still high.  
  • If you’re eligible, now is the time to visit your local pharmacy or any of our clinics to get a bivalent Omicron booster dose, so you'll be better protected against the Omicron variants. Our clinics do accept drop-ins to make things easier, though priority will go to those with appointments if they’re busy. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine 
  • We still strongly recommend wearing a well-fitted mask in indoor and/or crowded public places. It’s a simple and very effective way to help protect yourself and those around you. 
  • Lastly, the fall respiratory virus season is here, and we need to think about those added risks. Remember: the layers of protection we’ve all used throughout the pandemic (like masks, cough etiquette & staying home when sick) also work to protect us against colds & the flu. 
October 6th, 2022

Bivalent Booster Vaccine FAQs

Please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NewBivalent for updated bivalent booster FAQs, including availabilty at participating pharamcies.

Thanksgiving events
Use your layers! It is encouraged to continue to wear a mask in indoor settings when physical distancing is limited. Wearing a mask helps to protect those who remain at higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/RiskReduction

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   

Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
  • Per cent positivity is high and increasing 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update  
 
Key Takeaways 
  • Our monitoring indicators continue to show there are high levels of COVID-19 circulating in the community. 
  • COVID-19 is not the only respiratory virus out there. Respiratory illness season has started. Using the layers of protection we’ve used against COVID-19 will also help prevent the spread of other respiratory viruses like colds and the flu.  
  • Screen yourself for symptoms before getting together with loved ones this weekend. Consider gathering outdoors or opening windows for improved ventilation.  
  • We strongly recommend wearing a mask in any indoor and/or crowded public spaces. A well-fitted mask goes a long way towards limiting the spread of many respiratory illnesses and preventing serious illnesses and even deaths in our community. 
  • A bivalent COVID-19 booster offers increased protection against the Omicron variant. It is now available to everyone 18+ (12+ if immunocompromised). It’s recommended to get this booster six months after your last dose for the strongest protection (but you can choose to get it after three months). More info is available on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine
September 29th, 2022

Bivalent Booster Vaccine FAQs

Please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NewBivalent for updated bivalent booster FAQs, including when to schedule your booster.
Increase in suspected overdose-related activity in Ottawa

Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa Police Service and Ottawa Paramedic Service are issuing an alert to warn residents about an increase in suspected overdose-related activity in Ottawa. For the full statement and more information, please visit Ottawa.ca

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Friday, September 30 marks Canada’s second National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day provides an opportunity to bring awareness to the painful legacy and impacts of the residential school system and advance our reconciliation efforts. Please visit Ottawa.ca to see the changes to city service schedules.

Thanksgiving events
Use your layers! It is encouraged to continue to wear a mask in indoor settings when physical distancing is limited. Wearing a mask helps to protect those who remain at higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/RiskReduction

Environmental Health Week
September 26 to October 2 is Environmental Health Week, which celebrates the work of public health inspectors and other environmental health professionals in making our everyday lives safer. In addition to their work in health hazard and rabies prevention, answering calls on the intake line, inspections at restaurants, personal service settings, recreational water facilities, and in small drinking water systems, our Public Health Inspectors have been crucial to the pandemic response by mitigating risk and managing outbreaks in retirement and long-term care homes and congregate settings and guiding in the safe re-opening of businesses and childcare facilities. For more information, go to Ottawa.ca/EnvironmentalHealth
Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  

In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
​
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and increasing 
  • Per cent positivity is high and increasing 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and increasing 
 
Key Takeaways 
  • Monitoring indicators are showing an increase of COVID-19 in our community. We are now in a new wave of COVID-19.  We are also heading into the respiratory illness season where we expect respiratory viruses to be circulating. The same prevention strategies we use to fight COVID-19, can help protect you and your family from these viruses too.  
  • Individual action matters – if you are feeling sick, stay home. Isolate until you have no fever and your symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours. After isolating, continue to wear a mask in public for 10 days.  
  • As the weather gets colder, more people will gather more indoors. Consider wearing a mask to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 and other viruses.  
  • A bivalent COVID-19 booster is now available to all adults 18+. This booster is an added layer of protection, giving you even more diversity in the way your body can fight COVID-19.  
  • When you book a booster appointment now you will be offered the bivalent vaccine at your appointment. Ontario.ca/BookVaccine 
September 22nd, 2022

Bivalent Booster Vaccine FAQs

Please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/NewBivalent for updated bivalent booster FAQs, including when to schedule your booster.
Getting vaccines (and other services) at Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs 
To help Ottawa residents recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, Ottawa Public Health is working with city and community partners to provide additional access to health and social services at locations closer to where people live. The 15 Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs offer:
  • COVID-19 and other school vaccines
  • Dental screenings and dental health promotion
  • Support with mental health, addiction, and substance use health through wellness tips and assistance to book short-term counselling
  • Support with all areas of parenting through a public health nurse
  • Integration of community and social services including financial assistance, housing, employment services, and referrals.
 
The services are free, and no appointments are needed. Please visit the Neighbourhood Health and Wellness webpage for details about hub services, locations and schedules.
Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
​
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and increasing
  • Per cent positivity is moderate and increasing
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and increasing
 
Key Takeaways 
  • Monitoring indicators are showing an increase of COVID-19 in our community. Our overall levels of COVID-19 remain high.
  • Our actions matter. Every single person who wears a mask in indoor and/or crowded public settings makes a difference. Every person who stays home when sick, every person who stays up to date on recommended vaccine doses, all of it. It all matters.
  • If you are feeling sick, stay home. Do not stop isolating until you have no fever and your symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours. And after you’re done isolating, continue to wear a mask in public for 10 days after your symptoms started.
  • As you’re probably aware, the bivalent COVID-19 booster is now available to many higher-risk people and will be available to everyone 18+ soon. The bivalent COVID-19 vaccine protects against the current COVID-19 variants in Ontario. Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations will provide an extra layer of protection. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID-19Vaccine 
September 15th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   

Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
  • Per cent positivity is moderate and remains relatively unchanged since the last update 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
 
Key Takeaways 
  • Our monitoring indicators are once again showing a bit of a levelling-off of the decreases seen in previous weeks and levels of COVID-19 remain high in our community.  
  • With school resuming and colder weather approaching, it’s important to continue using layers of protection against COVID-19. It’s worth noting that these layers of protection will also help protect against other seasonal respiratory viruses (like colds, flu and RSV) 
  • Wearing a mask in indoor and/or crowded public spaces is still strongly recommended. Remember: if ending isolation after being sick, you should wear a mask in indoor public settings for 10 days after symptoms start. This is a simple and effective way to help protect those around you. 
  • The bivalent COVID-19 booster is now available to some higher-risk groups and will be open to all those 18+ in the coming weeks. Vaccination (including boosters) remains our strongest defense against COVID-19. Be sure to stay up to date on your recommended doses. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine 

September 13th, 2022

September 13, 2022 Statement by Dr. Vera Etches, Medical Officer of Health
COVID-19 vaccination updates, including the OPH Weekly COVID-19 Snapshot, enable individuals to have the information to seek maximal protection against the virus as we head into fall. The months ahead are expected to include circulation of several respiratory illnesses that may once again challenge systems with serious illness and disruption of school, work and leisure activities.    
On September 12, 2022, the Province of Ontario announced that the new bivalent booster for COVID-19 is now available to Ontarians aged 18 and over. This follows recent approval from Health Canada and aligns with the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommendations on the use of bivalent Omicron-containing mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.  
The bivalent COVID-19 booster is another layer we can use to increase protection against the most recently circulating COVID-19 variants in Ontario. Ottawa Public Health welcomes this announcement amid ongoing COVID-19 activity in our community and potential increases this fall. Over the next few weeks, we will prioritize the rollout of this booster to our communities at highest risk for severe illness, complications and hospitalization from COVID-19. Ottawa Public Health is working with its community partners to ensure the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine can reach those most at risk in our community.  
As vaccine protection and immunity from previous infection decrease over time, I strongly encourage all residents of Ottawa to get all booster doses they are eligible for ahead of what may be an active flu and respiratory illness season in our community.  

Bivalent COVID-19 booster for adults aged 18 and over 
Bivalent COVID-19 booster appointments are available immediately to highest risk populations and to all Ontarians aged 18 and over starting September 26, regardless of how many booster doses you have received.  
In order to optimize immune response and duration of protection, an interval of at least 6 months (168 days) is recommended between your last dose of COVID-19 vaccine and your fall booster dose. Individuals may choose to receive the bivalent booster as early as three months (84 days) after their last dose with informed consent.  
For those who have recently tested positive for COVID-19 on a PCR or Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), it is recommended you wait three months (84 days) since your symptom onset or positive test before getting the bivalent booster. 
·       Those in the highest risk populations will be able to book appointments right away with availability from September 12 and onward. This population group includes:  
  • Individuals aged 70 and over 
  • Residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, and individuals living in other congregate settings that provide assisted-living and health services 
  • First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over
  • Moderately to severely immunocompromised individuals aged 12 and over
  • Pregnant individuals aged 18 and over 
  • Health care workers aged 18 and over. 
  • Those aged 18 to 69 in the general population can start booking their appointments immediately for September 26 and onward. The availability of these appointments is dependent on supply of vaccine.  
  • All previously booked booster appointments for September 12 to 25 will be honoured and, if available, the bivalent vaccine will be offered to eligible clients. 

Individuals who meet the eligibility criteria can book their bivalent booster dose through the COVID-19 vaccination portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre (PVCC) at 1-833-943-3900. Those wishing to receive their bivalent booster at a shortened interval (less than 6 months) must book directly through the PVCC. Pregnant individuals and health care workers booking from September 12 to 25 must call the PVCC or book booster dose appointments through participating pharmacies. Residents are encouraged to make an appointment as there will be no drop-in capacity for bivalent boosters. Ottawa Public Health has posted appointment availability for the general public up until mid-October while we work to reach those at highest risk over the next two weeks.  
Ottawa Public Health is working to make the bivalent booster vaccine available to older adults in long-term care homes, retirement homes and other congregate care settings. These residents may receive their bivalent booster dose directly through the congregate home where they reside. Ottawa Public Health is also prioritizing First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals and health care workers by working directly with community partners and hospitals to make the bivalent COVID-19 booster available and support with targeted clinics.
​ 
Reducing transmission 
Being up to date on your COVID-19 vaccine continues to be our strongest protection against COVID-19. Additionally, Ottawa Public Health continues to recommend that individuals: 
  • make a plan in the event you or someone in your household need to self-isolate, learn more about self-isolation here 
  • know if you are eligible for COVID-19 treatment and how to access the treatment as soon as possible and within 5 days from the onset of symptoms.  
COVID-19 vaccinations protect people of all ages from symptomatic illness and reduce transmission to others, booster doses build on and restore the protection of the first two doses to lower risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19 over time. The risk of longer-term COVID-19 symptoms also appear to be reduced when people are vaccinated. 
I want to thank the residents of Ottawa as we continue to work together to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 on our community and as the pandemic evolves. Now is the time to ensure those at highest risk receive their bivalent COVID-19 booster – reach out to your loved ones or to a neighbour to help them get theirs. For more information on COVID-19, including the bivalent booster, please visit: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine.

September 12th, 2022

Ontarians Aged 18+ Eligible for Bivalent COVID-19 Booster Dose
As communicated in today’s provincial announcement, bivalent boosters are available to vulnerable populations effective immediately. All others 18+ are eligible starting September 26.  Appointments at Ottawa Public Health clinics can be booked via the provincial booking system. We are currently reviewing the latest Provincial updates and our team is working to update our website as soon as possible. Stay tuned for more updates on our COVID-19 vaccine web page.

We encourage you to share our Facebook and Twitter channels with your respective networks for up-to-date information.
​
Isolation instructions for COVID-19
Please visit the COVID-19 isolation web page for the latest updates on self-isolation for those who have COVID-19 or are exposed to it
September 9th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our  COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
​
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and are decreasing 
  • Per cent positivity is moderate and is decreasing 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
 
Key Takeaways
  • Our monitoring indicators continue showing that we are on the downslope of this wave. COVID-19 levels in the community remain high and the wave is not over. 
  • With school resuming, and colder weather approaching, it is vital to continue using layers of protection against COVID-19 and other seasonal respiratory viruses. 
  • Wearing a mask in indoor and/or crowded public spaces is still strongly recommended. Remember: if ending isolation after being sick, you should wear a mask in indoor public settings for 10 days after symptoms start. This is a simple and effective way to help protect those around you. 
  • Vaccination (including boosters) remains our strongest defense against COVID-19. Be sure to stay up to date on your recommended doses. OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine 
September 1st, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our  COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   

Monitoring Indicators 
·       Wastewater virus detection levels are high and are decreasing 
·       Per cent positivity is moderate and is decreasing 
·       New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and are decreasing 
·       New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update 
 
Key Takeaways
 
  • Our monitoring indicators continue to move in the right direction. It’s encouraging, but it does not mean this wave is over. The overall levels of COVID in our community are still higher than we’d like to see.
  • The start of a new school year means new beginnings for so many students in the community. It’s important that we give them the best opportunity to attend school safely by continuing to take steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19.  
  • Please remember that we continue to strongly recommend wearing masks in indoor and/or crowded public settings. 
  • If you’re planning to gather this Labour Day weekend, be vigilant with your layers of protection. Do not attend if feeling sick, wear a mask when needed, gather outdoors if possible, and stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations.
  • As we head into the cooler months, our actions can make a difference. Take steps now to protect yourself and your loved ones.
 
September 1, 2022 Statement by Dr. Vera Etches, Medical Officer of Health
On August 31, 2022, the Province of Ontario announced expansion of COVID-19 booster dose eligibility to children aged 5 to 11, as well as changes to the Provincial COVID-19 isolation guidance.
 
Booster Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine for Children Aged 5 to 11
The Province of Ontario recently announced expanded eligibility for COVID-19 booster doses to include children aged 5 to 11 providing an extra layer of protection ahead of the fall. The National Advisory Council on Immunization (NACI) also recently released new guidelines on the use of a first booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 to 11 years of age.
As of 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 1, 2022, parents and caregivers of children aged 5 to 11 can book appointments for the paediatric COVID-19 booster dose through the provincial booking system and the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900, as well as participating health care providers and select pharmacies. Drop-ins are limited, so booking an appointment is strongly encouraged. Booster appointments will be booked for approximately six months (168 days) after a second dose. To book a paediatric COVID-19 booster dose appointment online, individuals must be at least 5 years old at the time of appointment. Please visit the Ottawa Public Health webpage for clinic hours and locations.
 
Changes to Provincial COVID-19 Isolation Guidance
The province has also updated their isolation recommendations changing the five-day isolation recommendation to: “stay home if sick”. After isolating, wear a mask when out in public and avoid visiting vulnerable individuals at risk of severe infection and highest risk settings for 10 days from when your symptoms started.
For more details on the updated self-isolation guidance, please visit covid-19.ontario.ca/exposed.
The provincial self-assessment tool is available to those who have symptoms to help navigate self-isolation requirements specific to their unique situation, this tool can be found at: covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment.
 
Return to School
Over the last two years, Ottawa Public Health’s primary work with schools has been supporting schools and families with COVID-19. This year, we are excited to restore many of our regular services, including important services relating to students’ mental and physical health. This new school year offers the opportunity for in-person learning and extra-curricular activities at school, which are so important for the health and wellbeing of children and youth.
To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, Ottawa Public Health continues to recommend:
  • Screening children and youth daily for symptoms using the updated daily screening tool here: covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening.
  • Staying home when a child or youth is sick or has any symptoms of COVID-19, staying home means:
    • Stay home until you have no fever, and your symptoms are improving for at least 24 hours (or 48 hours for gastro-intestinal symptoms).
    • Take the provincial self-assessment to see recommendations tailored to your situation here: covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment.
    • Continue to wear a mask, after your isolation, when out in public for 10 days from when your symptoms started.
    • Avoid non-essential visits to high risk settings (like hospitals and long-term care) for 10 days from when your symptoms started.
  • Using Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) as needed; more information about RATs, eligibility for PCR testing, assessment and treatment is available at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVIDTesting.
  • Ensuring children and youth are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccine. It’s never too late to get your first and your second dose. Vaccines remain your greatest tool to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on your health.
Ottawa Public Health continues to inform schools on best practices for infection prevention and control including adequate ventilation, the use of personal protective equipment, promoting vaccines and hand washing, reporting absences to OPH, and what to do when a child is sick at school. Consider wearing a mask indoors and outdoors if distancing becomes challenging or is not possible. As per the Provincial guidance, staff and students should wear a mask for 10 days from when symptoms started when returning to school after illness. It is vital that schools remain a respectful, mask-friendly space for students and educators, and we continue to work together to foster a positive learning environment for all.
 
General COVID-19 Vaccination for Children and Youth
COVID-19 is still present in our community, and Omicron variants are very contagious, causing a lot of illness in our homes, schools, and childcare settings. As we enter the respiratory virus season this fall, choosing to get your child vaccinated as soon as they are eligible (including booster doses) will provide the best protection from serious illness and complications from COVID-19. Ensuring your children are up to date on their routine immunizations and that they receive the flu vaccine this fall are the best ways to protect children against serious illness and complications.
It is recommended to be vaccinated even after a COVID-19 infection. Children and youth should wait at least eight weeks after the appearance of symptoms or a positive test result if there were no symptoms. There are still plenty of opportunities to access the COVID-19 vaccine in Ottawa.
Anyone who is eligible and wishes to get vaccinated can do so at any of our community clinics or neighbourhood vaccine hubs. Drop-ins are limited so appointments are recommended. Find out here: where to get your child vaccinated here.
I want to thank the people of Ottawa for their continued efforts to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 in our community. Ottawa Public Health is committed to continuing to keep you informed to provide you with the best knowledge to make decisions for you and your family. I appreciate the respect for each other and the choices we make for ourselves and our families. 

August 31st, 2022

​Children Aged Five and Over Eligible for First Booster Shot
 
As communicated in today’s provincial announcement, as of 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 1, 2022, children 5 to 11 years old in Ontario will be eligible for a booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine 6 months after their primary series. Appointments at Ottawa Public Health clinics can be booked via the provincial booking system. We are currently reviewing the latest Provincial updates to the self-isolation requirements in Ontario and our team is working to update our website and self-isolation tools as soon as possible.  Stay tuned for more updates on our COVID-19 vaccine web page.
 
We encourage you to share our Facebook and Twitter channels with your respective networks for up-to-date information. 

August 25th, 2022

COVID-19 vaccine for children six months to under five years
Our vaccine rollout for children six months to under five years is ongoing. To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine for this age group, please visit  OttawaPublicHealth.ca/ChildCOVID19Vaccine 
 
Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   

Monitoring Indicators 
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and remain relatively unchanged since the last update
  • Per cent positivity is moderate and remains relatively unchanged since the last update
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and remain relatively unchanged since the last update

​Key Takeaways
You’ll notice the phrase “remains relatively unchanged since the last update” appears on all our indicators this week. While it’s too early to tell if the decreases seen in previous weeks have stopped, it’s a reminder that this wave is not over.
The levels of COVID-19 in our community are still high, and it’s very important to keep using your layers of protection. We continue to strongly recommend wearing masks in indoor and/or crowded public settings.
If you’re planning to attend a gathering this weekend (or anytime in the future), be extra vigilant with your layers. Do not attend if feeling sick, wear a mask when needed, and stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations.
The actions we all take now can help influence the outcome of this wave in the weeks to come.

August 18th, 2022

COVID-19 vaccine for children six months to under five years
Our vaccine rollout for children six months to under five years is ongoing. To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine for children six months to under five years, please visit  OttawaPublicHealth.ca/ChildCOVID19Vaccine or see the attached documents available in English, French, Somali and Arabic.
 
Expanded Monkeypox Clinics
Ottawa Public Health has expanded Monkeypox clinics across Ottawa. Some of our COVID-19 clinics are now offering Monkeypox vaccinations including Centretown Community Health Centre, the OPH Sexual Health Clinic, the Tom Brown Arena, the Orléans Ruddy Family YMCA-YWCA and the Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre. We’ve also worked closely with community partners such as MAX Ottawa to add more vaccine locations and appointments.
We have also been working collaboratively with multiple organizations and event organizers to offer vaccine pop-up clinic options at events such as: Capital Pride, Bingham Cup, and the Gay Ottawa Volleyball League.
 
Please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Monkeypox for eligibility and booking a vaccination appointment.
 
Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
Monitoring Indicators 
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and are decreasing
  • Per cent positivity is high and decreasing
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and decreasing
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and decreasing

Key Takeaways
Our monitoring indicators are beginning to decline, and that’s encouraging. But COVID-19 levels remain high in our community – let's get ahead of the fall and do what we can to minimize impacts.
Getting together outdoors remains your option with the lowest risk (while also being a solid opportunity for physical activity), so be sure to take advantage of the summer weather while it’s still here.
Our epidemiologists, nurses, doctors, community outreach workers, public health inspectors, mental health staff, communications team and countless others continue to work hard each day to support our community through this pandemic. Be it managing outbreaks, providing much-needed booster doses, working on the ground in the community or our ongoing communications work, we are very much still in this with you, working for you.
Ottawa’s under-five vaccine uptake remains one of the highest in Ontario! Thank you to all the parents and kiddos who are helping protect our community!
For those who still need to book their child’s appointment, now is the time (i.e. before schools resume). You can find helpful info on our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine.

August 11th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
Monitoring Indicators 
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and are decreasing 
  • Per cent positivity is high and decreasing 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and decreasing 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and decreasing 
Key Takeaways 
  • While our indicators are indeed showing a decrease, the levels of COVID-19 in our community are still high. 
  • It remains important to use your layers of protection: wear a well-fitted mask when in indoor and/or crowded public settings, stay home when sick, open windows when gathering indoors to ensure optimal ventilation and stay up to date on your recommended COVID-19 vaccinations. 
  • Getting a booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine has been shown to significantly decrease the odds of severe outcomes like hospitalization or death, especially for those over 50. Be sure to book your booster dose(s) now: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine or reach out to your local pharmacy using the provincial pharmacy locator to find a location offering the COVID-19 vaccine
  • We are very encouraged by Ottawa’s under 5 years vaccine uptake, which is among the highest in the province! This is essential for helping to protect the littlest members of our community. For more info, including how to book an appointment, visit our website: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine 
Monkeypox
For updated information, including common signs and symptoms, vaccine eligibility, booking a vaccine and clinic locations, please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Monkeypox
​
August 4th, 2022

Second booster dose
We are in a large Omicron BA.5 resurgence now which means that the chance of being exposed to COVID is high if you are interacting with others, particularly in indoor settings.
 
Most people received their first booster in early 2022, which means their immunity against infection has waned considerably, although there is still good protection against serious illness.
 
Ottawa Public Health recommends that high-risk individuals get their second booster dose as soon as possible: 
  • Individuals aged 60 and over; 
  • First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over; and 
  • Residents of a long-term care home, retirement home, or Elder Care Lodge and older adults living in other congregate settings that provide assisted-living and health services. 
Getting a second booster now is something people should consider since immunity to infection is waning from first booster dose, and we have very high COVID transmission in the community.

Second booster doses are being offered at an interval of five months (140 days) after an individual receives their first booster dose. Individuals who recently had a confirmed infection with COVID-19 should wait for three months after infection before receiving another booster dose to improve the immune response they receive from the booster dose.
 
Bivalent COVID-19 vaccines, vaccines that target the Omicron strain of the COVID-19 virus may be available later this year. The timing of this release is not yet known but we will continue to update the community as more information becomes available from Health Canada and the Province. At this time, we also do not know the minimum interval between a previous dose (e.g., a second booster) and the new vaccine, but we anticipate it will be three months, subject to confirmation by the Province.
 
Ottawa residents seeking their second booster are encouraged to reach out to local pharmacies using the provincial pharmacy locator to find those that provide COVID-19 vaccines. Some primary care physicians are also providing boosters. 

Residents can also book an appointment at a community clinic through the Provincial COVID-19 Vaccination Portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900. Appointments are strongly recommended as drop-in capacity is limited.

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
 
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are very high and are decreasing
  • Per cent positivity is very high and increasing
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and decreasing
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and decreasing
We’re halfway through the summer school holidays – make the most of it, help limit COVID-19 transmission by using your layers of protection.
Screen for symptoms, stay home if you’re sick, carry a mask with you for indoor or crowded spaces, and get your COVID-19 vaccine ahead of the Fall – whatever dose you need, we’re here!
Our vaccine rollout for children six months to under five years is ongoing. Get your little ones vaccinated before school starts. Find more info on our website OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine
 
Monkeypox
For updated information, including common signs and symptoms, vaccine eligibility, booking a vaccine and clinic locations, please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Monkeypox

July 28th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are very high and are decreasing
  • Per cent positivity is very high and increasing
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and increasing
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and decreasing
The levels of COVID-19 in our community are still very high, and it remains very important that we all use the layers of protection that we know can help to prevent transmission.
Please remember that things like wearing a mask, getting boosted & staying home when sick are simple actions that work. They limit the spread of the virus, and they limit its impact on you and those around you as well as limiting its impact on our local healthcare system and local businesses.
If you’re not already doing so, please consider sharing these weekly snapshots with your networks.  

COVID-19 vaccine clinics for children aged six months to under five yearsAs of today, July 28, 2022, parents and guardians can book appointments for children aged six months to under five years for the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine.

Children under five have been the only major population group without the protection offered from vaccination, leaving many parents worried about their children and the effects of a potential COVID-19 infection, including for people at higher risk around them. Having a vaccine for this age group is a vital step in protecting many more children during this resurgence of COVID-19 in our community and ahead of the school year.
Appointments can be booked through the provincial COVID-19 vaccination portal, by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-390 or by checking local pharmacies to find locations that provide the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine. Parents and guardians are encouraged to make an appointment for their children as drop-in availability will be limited at community vaccine clinics. Some primary care physicians and paediatricians may also provide this vaccine to their clients.

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is working with partners to expand its current COVID-19 clinics to offer additional options for children and their families. Children in Ottawa can look forward to being vaccinated through various initiatives, including:
  • Smaller, rotating family-friendly vaccination clinics operated by OPH across the city:
    • City of Ottawa buildings at 255 Centrum Boulevard, Mary Pitt Centre at 100 Constellation Drive, Walter Baker Sports Centre, Horticulture Building at Lansdowne Park, and Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre and more locations to be added and communicated over the next few weeks.
    • Various partner agencies across the city, including some EarlyON centres and the Ottawa Birth and Wellness Centre, to be launched and communicated over the next few weeks.
    • OPH Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs.
  • The Kids Come First Clinic at CHEO offers vaccinations to children who can’t attend a community vaccination clinic. Visit CHEO’s Vaccination page for details.

​OPH expects to receive paediatric vaccine supply this week, with clinics welcoming this new age group as of July 28, 2022. Visit the OPH website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/ChildCOVID19Vaccine for additional clinic details. New clinics and more appointments will be added to meet demand and as more vaccine supply is received.

July 21st, 2022

COVID-19 Vaccine Bookings to Open for Children Aged Six Months to Under Five Years
As of 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2022, parents and caregivers of children aged six months to under five years will be able to book appointments for the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine. Stay tuned for more updates on our COVID-19 vaccine web page.

Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs
Our Neighbourhood Hubs have expanded. Residents can now access mental health and community and social services at certain Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hub locations, including immunizations needed for school, mental health support, dental screening, Parenting in Ottawa drop-ins, as well as employment and social services. Ottawa Public Health continues to offer residents access to COVID-19 vaccination at Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs. Residents can also still visit a hub to speak with a Public Health Nurse about their health questions and concerns.
We are excited to continue to offer supports for the community in familiar and convenient locations within neighbourhoods, meeting residents where they are. 

Check out our  Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hub web page for locations and the services you can access at each. 
Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our  COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   

Monitoring Indicators
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are very high and increasing
  • Per cent positivity is very high and increasing
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and increasing
  • New confirmed outbreaks are high and increasing
Key Messages
  • The levels of COVID-19 in Ottawa are very high right now, higher than the January Omicron wave.
  • We’re not trying to scare anyone, but if you haven’t yet taken this wave seriously, now’s a good time to start. This is the time for everyone to reassess their behaviours based on the levels of COVID-19 in the community.
  • Every action we take now will pay dividends in the weeks to come. Wearing masks, staying home when sick, getting boosted (and encouraging others to do the same) are things we can all do to minimize the impacts of this wave.
  • Remember: nearly 900K people in Ottawa have received 2 doses, and nearly 600K have received their 1st booster. We know 2 doses aren’t enough, so if you’re up to date on your boosters, please take the time to talk to your friends/loved ones about why you got boosted & why they should too.
  • ICYMI: today, second booster eligibility has been expanded to immunocompromised youth aged 12 to 17. Info about eligibility & availability can be found here on www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine
The levels of COVID-19 in Ottawa are very high right now, higher than the January Omicron wave. 

We’re not trying to scare anyone, but if you haven’t yet taken this wave seriously, now’s a good time to start. This is the time for everyone to reassess their behaviours based on the levels of COVID-19 in the community. 

Every action we take now will pay dividends in the weeks to come. Wearing masks, staying home when sick, getting boosted (and encouraging others to do the same) are things we can all do to minimize the impacts of this wave. 

Remember: nearly 900K people in Ottawa have received 2 doses, and nearly 600K have received their 1st booster. We know 2 doses aren’t enough, so if you’re up to date on your boosters, please take the time to talk to your friends/loved ones about why you got boosted & why they should too. 
ICYMI: today, second booster eligibility has been expanded to immunocompromised youth aged 12 to 17. Info about eligibility & availability can be found here on www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine  


July 21, 2022 Statement by Dr. Vera Etches, Medical Officer of Health
Thank you, Ottawa, for your ongoing support and efforts as we tackle yet another wave of COVID-19 in our community. Today, the province announced that children aged six months to under five years will be able to book appointments for the paediatric COVID-19 vaccine as of Thursday next week and immunocompromised youth aged 12 to 17 are now eligible for a second booster. We welcome this news, another great step forward in protecting our community and minimizing the impacts of COVID-19 on families, particularly during this latest resurgence.

I am concerned about this current wave. We are noting very high levels of COVID-19 in our wastewater and week after week this has been increasing. Our test percent positivity is also very high and increasing and our COVID-19 hospitalizations and confirmed outbreaks are both increasing as well. This is indicative that the level of COVID-19 is very high in Ottawa right now, higher than the January Omicron wave.

We know that Omicron and its sub-variants are much more transmissible. We also need to remember that we cannot rely on immunity alone to protect us. The newer Omicron sub-variants are different, and even people who previously had COVID-19 earlier this year could be susceptible to reinfection.
Individually and collectively, now is the time to reassess and adapt our behaviours to the levels of COVID-19 in the community. This is an important skill we will all need as we head into the fall. Wearing masks indoors and outdoors in crowded spaces, staying home when sick, getting booster doses, and minimizing contacts during periods of high transmission in the community are all behaviours that will help us, our families, and our loved ones. Individual actions help influence community impact. For Ottawa residents who continue to use layers of protection, thank you for leading by example. We all need to continue to assess our risk and the risk of those around us, particularly during this resurgence.

The pandemic is far from over. The warm weather has brought some much-needed respite from those hectic winter months, but now is not the time to let our guard down. Despite not seeing rates of severe illness and hospitalizations climbing as quickly as with previous waves, we need to remain mindful of the effects of COVID-19 on older adults, those with chronic health conditions, those who remain unvaccinated, and those who are immunocompromised. Among older adults, those aged 60 and over remain at high risk for severe illness and complications from COVID-19, yet over 25,000 Ottawa residents over the age of 60 have yet to access their third dose (first booster), and over 88,000 still require their fourth dose (second booster).

Nearly 900,000 Ottawa residents have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, and nearly 600,000 have received their booster dose. I thank you for doing your part to help protect the community and in the face of Omicron and its sub-variants, we know two doses are not enough. Now is the time to get your booster dose if you have yet to do so.

Now is also the time to reach out to friends and loved ones who are not yet vaccinated or boosted. Talk to them about why you chose to get your shots. Talk to them about why it is important for them to get theirs. Show them you care. If they have any questions, our nurses are always just a phone call away. If they have barriers preventing them from accessing their vaccines, we can all help. Offer them a ride or help them to book an appointment at your local pharmacy. If people you know are not wearing their masks, lead by example. Encourage them to bring their masks with them when going out. You never know if the people you meet will be at higher risk.

We know that the pandemic has had, and continues to have, significant impacts on the business community. We all continue to have a collective responsibility to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 in our respective environments, including at local businesses where people may be at risk. Ottawa Public Health continues to strongly recommend that everyone wear a mask indoors and outdoors if distancing could become challenging or is not possible. Many businesses continue to require, encourage and welcome mask use to reduce risks for both staff and customers, and, based on the current situation, others may choose to reintroduce masking policies in their place of business at this time.
Businesses can also lead by example and encourage small actions that can make a big impact. This includes keeping physical distancing reminders in place and posting signage in their store fronts to let customers know that measures are in place to help reduce their risks when inside, like welcoming mask use, ongoing use of barriers, visual hand hygiene reminders, providing hand sanitizer on-site, and supporting and encouraging employees to get vaccinated and get boosted, and stay home when they are not well.

Together we can make a difference on the impact of COVID-19 in our community. The decisions we make today will help us all tomorrow.
July 15th, 2022

​Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
 
In addition to updating our  COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.   
 
Monitoring Indicators 
  • Wastewater virus detection levels are high and increasing 
  • Per cent positivity is very high and increasing 
  • New COVID-19 hospitalizations are moderate and increasing 
  • New confirmed outbreaks are moderate and increasing 
 
This new wave is another reminder: the pandemic is not over. But, we know the things that can help to minimize its impact: get boosted, wear a mask, limit your contacts & stay home when you’re sick. 
 
The term “fully vaccinated” used to mean having two doses, but Omicron changed that. Two doses do not offer enough protection against these latest variants, and natural immunity from a COVID-19 infection isn’t enough either. If you’ve only received 2 doses, we strongly recommend you get your 3rd dose to ensure the best possible protection. 
 
This week, over 320,000 additional Ottawa residents became eligible for their 4th dose. If choosing to get your 4th dose, we recommend booking an appointment at one of our clinics, a local pharmacy or from your primary care provider. Info about recommendations & eligibility can be found here: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine  
 
If you’ve already gotten your recommended booster(s), THANK YOU! Now’s the time to talk to your friends & loved ones who haven’t. Show them you care by helping them book an appt & offering them a ride to get their shot if they need one.  
 
Beat the Heat Resources 
The City of Ottawa Heat, Cold and Smog Planning Committee has resources to share with our community as part of the 2022 hot weather season.  Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable.  This year, the removal of provincial pandemic restrictions will increase the ways we can cool off in Ottawa, with more public and private spaces available. The public is also welcome to seek access to air conditioning at all City facilities during regular hours of operation. For these reasons, Emergency Cooling Centers will be opened this summer only if there is a concurrent situation that requires an enhanced response, such as a power outage affecting a specific ward or a heat dome weather event.    
Beat the Heat resources:  
  • Updated 2022 Beat the Heat factsheet that identifies public places to cool off in Ottawa and ways to cool down without air conditioning. This fact sheet is available in eight languages - English, French, Nepali, Arabic, Punjabi, Simple Chinese, Somali, and Spanish. (English and French versions attached) 
  • Interactive map of places to Beat the Heat in Ottawa on Ottawa Public Health’s Extreme Heat and Humidity website i
  • Sample newsletter for sharing with your networks - “Five Ways to Beat the Heat in Ottawa this Summer” (attached).  
  • What to do if there is a power outage during a heat wave.  
  • Sign up for Environment and Climate Change Canada EC Alert me emails or download the WeatherCAN app  weather warnings.   
  • Get advice and support:  
    • Call 2-1-1 for social services assistance.  
    • Call 3-1-1 and/or Ottawa Public Health 613-580-6744 for information and assistance on staying cool during a heat wave.   
    • Call 8-1-1 Health Connect Ontario for non-emergency medical advice or 9-1-1 for medical emergency such as heat stroke.   
  • The “Find Your Way Community Resource Guide” provides contact information for services such as shelters and drop-in centres.     
  • Printable posters from Health Canada on ways to protect you and loved ones during an extreme heat event.  
The City of Ottawa Extreme Heat, Cold and Smog Planning Committee is looking ahead and planning for the future to ensure Ottawa is ready to adapt to increasingly hotter and longer summers due to climate change.  This committee is made up of City Departments and community partners including The Salvation Army Outreach Services, the Canadian Red Cross Ottawa Branch, and Ottawa Community Housing.  We meet regularly to update our plan and coordinate activities.   
We appreciate your assistance in helping keep residents aware of ways to stay cool this summer by sharing resources and encouraging them to visit Ottawa Public Health Extreme Heat and Humidity web page or call OPH at 613-580-6744.  Should you or your staff have questions please reach out to [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you.   
July 13th, 2022

Ottawa Public Health is increasing operations at community clinics, mobile clinics and neighbourhood hubs to respond to the provincial announcement regarding expanded availability of a fourth dose (second booster) of the COVID-19 vaccine to individuals aged 18 and over.  

Second booster doses are being offered at an interval of five months (140 days) after an individual receives their first booster dose.  

Ottawa Public Health recommends that high-risk individuals get their second booster dose as soon as possible: 
·         Individuals 18+ who are moderately to severely immunocompromised  
·         Individuals aged 60 and over; 
·         First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over; and 
·         Residents of a long-term care home, retirement home, or Elder Care Lodge and older adults living in other congregate settings that provide assisted-living and health services. 

Ottawa residents seeking their second booster are encouraged to reach out to local pharmacies using the provincial pharmacy locator to find those that provide COVID-19 vaccines. Some primary care physicians are also providing boosters. 

Residents can also book an appointment at a community clinic through the Provincial COVID-19 Vaccination Portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900. Appointments are strongly recommended as drop-in capacity is limited. Please note for newly eligible adults aged 18 and older, booking will begin on Thursday, July 14 at 8:00 a.m. 

It’s not too late for individuals to receive their first, second, or third dose. Ottawa Public Health encourages all residents to get vaccinated as soon as they can and to keep up to date on their vaccinations to ensure maximum protection against COVID-19. 
July 11th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa 
In addition to updating our  COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.  
Our indicators are showing that our community is in a new wave of COVID-19 infections. What we do now will make a difference in the weeks to come.
  
While our vaccine coverage for 12 years and older is more than 90% for 1st and 2nd doses, the numbers are much lower for people eligible for booster doses. To help curb the spread and impact of COVID-19 related illness, it is important that everyone stays up to date with all the doses they are eligible for. Even if you have had COVID-19, a booster dose can help protect you from future infections. Talk to loved ones who may not be up to date on their vaccinations and encourage them to get theirs now!  More info at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine 
 
We strongly recommend wearing a mask in indoor public spaces and crowded outdoor gatherings. If you are attending summer events or festivals this weekend, please wear a mask if cannot maintain physical distancing and use your layers of protection. More info at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Risk Reduction 
 
After many gathered to celebrate over the long weekend, it is important to be especially mindful of any symptoms of COVID-19 in yourself and those around you. Don’t wait to take steps to protect others if you have symptoms. Visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Isolation Instructions for guidance. 
June 2nd, 2022

COVID-19 Safety for Graduations and Proms 
With graduation and prom season upon us, OPH has added a new section to our Supporting Schools webpage on COVID-19 safety for graduations and proms.  

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa   
In addition to updating our Daily COVID-19 Dashboard every weekday (Monday to Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.    
May 12th, 2022

Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa  
In addition to updating our Daily COVID-19 Dashboard every weekday (Monday to Friday), Ottawa Public Health is now also releasing weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.  
April 13, 2022 – Special Statement from Dr. Vera Etches  

As we approach another holiday during the pandemic, many people are making plans to gather with loved ones or attend religious ceremonies. Spending time with family and friends is important for mental health, so if you are planning to gather with others, I encourage everyone to continue to assess your individual risk and the risk of those with whom you plan to gather.
We continue to see a high level of COVID-19 in the community based on our usual indicators, including wastewater data, per cent positivity, outbreaks and hospitalizations.

Given the current high level of COVID-19 in the community, Ottawa Public Health is strongly recommending individuals to wear masks in indoor settings, particularly in situations where physical distancing may be difficult or impossible.  Consider keeping your gathering smaller and limiting the number of contacts outside your household. The weather forecast is calling for milder temperatures this weekend, so think about taking your gatherings outdoors. Keep windows or screen doors open to increase air flow. Consider the vaccination status of the individuals in attendance.
We encourage everyone to get all vaccination doses they are eligible for – for those 60 and older, that means a fourth dose. Booster doses significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and lower the risk of transmission. More information on eligibility can be found on our website. People may choose to book their 4th dose after 3 months for additional protection during this resurgence by calling the provincial vaccine booking line, rather than at the automatic 5-month interval using the online booking system.

And as always, if you are feeling sick, stay home. Even if you test negative on a rapid test, stay home and do not attend any gatherings if you’re feeling sick. We are aware of other viruses circulating in the community, including gastrointestinal illness. This may present differently than COVID-19, but it is still important to stay home when sick and to use layers of protection to reduce transmission and keep others well. If you have symptoms or test positive be sure to follow isolation instructions to reduce the risk of transmission, more information is available at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Self-Isolate.  

The Province of Ontario has recently expanded eligibility for testing and COVID-19 antiviral treatments for people with symptoms who are at higher risk of severe COVID-19. These treatments must be taken within the first five days of symptom onset. More information on treatment can be found at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVIDAntiviral.

We are still in the middle of a significant wave and taking these precautions will help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
I know that hearing the same message for two years is not easy. Sharing this message is not easy. We have been through – and continue to navigate – a significant event that will leave an imprint on our lives forever.  We don't yet know long COVID will be present in the community, or to what extent, but we've been at this for 25 long months and we will see this through with you. Such measures will not always be needed, but are useful to go back to in times of high levels of COVID-19 in the community.
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So for now, continue to take care of each other.
Be kind. Be well. And be safe.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwetch.
April 7, 2022 - Special Statement from Champlain Region's Hospital Chiefs of Staff and Medical Officers of Health
 
COVID-19 on the rise again in Eastern Ontario: What you can doThe level of COVID-19 in the Champlain region is on the rise. The COVID-19 wastewater viral signal is increasing in the region and is at record levels in Ottawa. In addition, test per cent positivity across the region is high and increasing, according to regional public health units.
In response, every hospital Chief of Staff and every public health unit Medical Officer of Health in the Champlain region are coming together to highly recommend the following four things that you can do right now to protect yourself, your family, and your community, with the goal of reducing severe illness and hospitalization:
  1. Get vaccinated with all the doses you are eligible for.
  2. Limit your close contacts.
  3. Wear a mask in indoor public spaces.
  4. Stay home if you are sick.

To book a vaccine, please visit COVID-19 vaccines for Ontario. For residents in the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, please visit their Vaccine Booking page.
If you know or suspect you have COVID-19 and need to be assessed by a clinician, below are some options for accessing care. When possible, please check with your primary care provider first. Also, please check the specific criteria for each clinic.
​Thank you for doing what you can to help keep yourself and those around you safe during this time of uncertainty amid the rising levels of COVID-19.

April 6th, 2022

This morning the Ontario government announced that it is expanding eligibility for fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to individuals aged 60 and over as well as First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over starting on April 7, 2022.  
 
Starting on Thursday, April 7 at 8:00 am, eligible individuals will be able to book their fourth dose appointment through the COVID-19 vaccination portal or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900, directly through Ottawa Public Health’s booking line at 613-691-5505, or through Indigenous-led vaccination clinics, participating pharmacies, and participating primary care settings. 
 
OPH continues to updates our COVID-19 vaccine webpage and encourage you to promote all these resources with your residents. 
 
Additionally, please see the updates below for the latest resources from Ottawa Public Health (OPH).  
 
Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 situation in Ottawa 
COVID-19 levels in our community remain very high. OPH highly recommends that people continue to wear masks and that we all be mindful of how many close contacts we have. It is also more important than ever for residents to get vaccinated with all the doses for which they are eligible. 
 
Every week, OPH will share a snapshot of the COVID-19 situation in Ottawa via its social channels. If you are not already doing so, please also follow on OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels, and share those posts with your followers. They contain important information to help all of us get through this latest resurgence. 
 
New Youth Mental Health E-Learning Hub 
In partnership with OPH, CHEO’s YouthNet has officially launched the new Youth Mental Health E-Learning Hub. This creative bilingual website was designed by Ottawa youth for youth (ages 13 to 24) and to participate in a self-guided learning journey about mental health, explore community resources available to them, and connect with each other. Teachers and educators can also benefit from this e-learning hub for their lesson plans and to facilitate important conversations with their students about mental health.  

April 1st, 2022

OPH is pleased to advise that, starting April 5, 2022, they will be implementing pilot Neighborhood Wellness Hubs in 5 locations across the City.
 
To better support the wellness of Ottawa residents, staff working in the Neighbourhood Wellness Hubs will be promoting mental health and substance use health directly in our communities and connecting residents with social services supports.
 
The 5 locations will be:
  • Rideau Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard
  • Bellevue Community Centre, 1475 Caldwell Avenue
  • Albion-Heatherington Recreation Centre, 1560 Heatherington Road
  • Boys & Girls’ Club Ron Kolbus Clubhouse, 2825 Dumaurier Avenue
  • Boys & Girls’ Club Don McGahan Clubhouse, 430 McArthur Avenue
 
To reduce stigma and barriers to accessing mental health and substance use supports, the Hub services will be provided by culturally diverse public health staff. Residents will be able to access strategies, tips and resources on wellness, support with booking of short-term counselling, system navigation of mental health and substance use health counselling and programs, and access to social services through the Community and Social Services Department’s Employee and Social Services teams.
 
OPH is proud to be operating the pilot Neighborhood Wellness Hubs in partnership with the City of Ottawa’s Community and Social Services Department, Upstream Ottawa, AccessMHA, Counselling Connect and 1Call1Click. 
 
More details on the services and hours of operation can be found in the attached flyer.
 
We encourage you to share this information with your various networks. 

March 30, 2022 – Special Statement from Dr. Vera Etches
​  
We continue to see evidence that the level of COVID-19 in Ottawa is rising. The COVID-19 wastewater viral signal is very high and increasing, as is Ottawa’s test per cent positivity. Hospitalizations and outbreaks are currently stable however we know these are lagging indicators and wastewater levels can provide an early signal of trends to follow. Today, Ottawa Public Health posted on social media a snapshot of the trends we are seeing in Ottawa.
The pandemic is not over and we are currently experiencing another resurgence.
Ottawa Public Health has informed the office of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health of the concerning levels of COVID-19 in Ottawa and the province is carefully monitoring the impact on health system capacity.  Ottawa Public Health is also reaching out directly to people over 50 who could benefit from another vaccine dose.
We highly recommend Ottawa residents to get vaccinated with all the doses of the COVID-19 vaccine that you are eligible for as soon as possible. Compared to two doses, a third dose provides stronger protection against hospitalization, as well as symptomatic infection. For some at higher risk, a fourth dose is needed. Visit our website regularly for the latest information on vaccine eligibility and to stay up to date.
We also highly recommend individuals to continue wearing a mask indoors especially when physical distancing may not be possible or proves to be challenging in crowded areas.
If you become unwell or have any symptoms, stay home. Do not attend work or go to school when you are sick, and have a plan in the event you or someone in your household needs to isolate.
Some people experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, feeling increasingly unwell or suspect they have COVID-19 may be eligible for clinical assessment and antiviral treatment. Visit the Province of Ontario’s website or speak to your primary care provider for more information about COVID-19 antiviral treatment.
March 24th, 2022

Updates from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) 

COVID-19 Vaccination 
As noted in Dr. Moloughney’s Special Statement, COVID-19 vaccination continues to be crucial, especially as public health measures are lifted. A third dose provides a higher level of protection than two doses.  
For your awareness, OPH has begun calling Ottawa residents 60-69 years of age who have not yet received their third dose and offering to book them into a clinic. The Community Operations team is also reaching out to community partners in neighbourhoods with lower uptake of third doses to try and promote hub and mobile clinic options.  

School Immunization Catch-Up Clinics 
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has resumed school immunization catch-up clinics, by appointment only, for youth who attend school in Ottawa who were unable to attend or receive their school-based vaccines (Hepatitis B, HPV, Meningococcal vaccines) at their school clinic in grade 7.  
In addition to providing COVID-19 vaccines for residents, the JH Putman School Community Clinic and Orleans Ruddy Family YMCA-YWCA Community Clinic will offer the above-referenced publicly funded immunizations for eligible youth who meet one or more of the following criteria: 
  • Student in grade 7 or 8 who was unable to attend or receive school-based vaccines at their school clinic; 
  • Student in grades 9 to 12 who has not completed their school-based vaccine series normally administered at school in grade 7 (hepatitis B, human papillomavirus (HPV) and meningococcal conjugate vaccine). 
Appointments can be book through OPH’s online booking website or by calling OPH at 613-580-6744, Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. 
For more information on the school immunization catch-up clinic services or on immunization for youth and school vaccination, please visit the Parenting in Ottawa website. 

March 24, 2022 – Special Statement from Dr. Brent Moloughney 

COVID-19 levels in OttawaCurrently we are seeing evidence of an increase in COVID-19 transmission in Ottawa. Over the past week, the wastewater viral signal and percentage of tests that are positive have continued to increase. We are seeing a slight increase in outbreaks and our hospitalizations are stable, however previous trends have shown that there is often a lag in these indicators. Given the lifting of public health measures, increased mobility, social gatherings and the return to school following March Break, we can expect to continue to see evidence of increased transmission in the community. The Ontario Science Table recently projected that while hospitalizations will likely increase this spring, the increase will be less than we experienced in January. The Table stated that the extent of the increase will depend upon the number of close contacts (especially indoors without masking), vaccination status and the spread of the more transmissible BA.2 subvariant.
Ottawa Public Health will continue to closely monitor key COVID-19 indicators and will work with Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore to assess and discuss potential options for Ottawa if key indicators shift in a concerning way. Ottawa Public Health will continue to keep the public informed as public health measures are lifted and as we closely monitor this step in our pandemic response.
Through our individual actions and behaviours to follow public health measures, including vaccination, we have prevented serious illness, hospitalization and deaths from COVID-19 in our community. I thank the residents of Ottawa for their contribution to mitigating the spread and the impacts of this virus in our community.
Over the last two years, Ottawa residents have learned skills and adopted new tools to prevent transmission. These tools remain in our individual control. We recently launched a new webpage that provides more information about reducing risk for individuals and their families as the pandemic evolves. Please visit our website regularly for more information and updates.

MasksOn March 21, the Province removed mask requirements in many settings.
After almost two years of mask mandates, we understand why there may be some confusion about where masks continue to be required.
Provincial regulations state that masks must still be worn in the following settings:
  • Public transit
  • Long-term care and retirement homes
  • Health-care settings including hospitals and public health clinics
  • Congregate care settings
  • Shelters
  • Correctional and detention centres.
In addition, masks are required in all public settings for those:
  • Who have been a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
  • Who return from international travel (see below).
While no longer required, considering that the level of COVID-19 in our community appears to be increasing, Ottawa Public Health continues to strongly recommend mask use for people at risk for severe illness, including their family and close contacts, and for everyone to consider masking in indoor settings when physical distancing may be difficult.
Please be kind and respectful of others’ choices, and please remember that wearing a mask is not just about protecting you, but also protecting those around you.
Please visit our masking page for more information and to help you make informed decisions about mask use in the current environment.

Federal requirements for returning international travellersFollowing March Break or other reasons for travel, many individuals and families may be returning to Canada amidst new provincial COVID-19 policies. If you are returning from international travel, please visit the Government of Canada website for the steps you need to take. These requirements by the federal government supersede provincial or local policies including testing and mask use.
Under current federal travel requirements, upon return from international travel, individuals that are exempt from quarantine must wear a mask at all times when in public spaces (including schools and child care) for their first 14 days in Canada.
Federal travel guidelines may change. Please check the PHAC/CBSA website for current federal information and direct any questions to the federal COVID-19 information line at 1-833-784-4391 or [email protected].

VaccinesTo date, 88 per cent of Ottawa residents have received at least one dose of vaccine and 84 per cent have received two doses. We are incredibly proud of the progress Ottawa residents have made. Vaccination continues to be crucial, especially as public health measures are lifted. For those who are eligible, a third dose provides a higher level of protection than two doses. People aged 50 and older or those who have underlying medical conditions are at greatest risk of severe illness and we urge those who have not yet received their third dose to do so as soon as possible. Being up to date with your COVID-19 immunizations is the single most important step to protect yourself against hospitalization or death.
Using a community-centred and informed approach, OPH continues to work in collaboration with community members and partners to better understand how to address barriers to getting vaccinated directly in neighbourhoods where uptake may be lower. We work to reduce barriers to vaccination by offering education opportunities, community clinics, neighbourhood hub clinics, after school clinics, mobile and pop-up clinics which all offer drop-in options to make vaccination as easy, convenient and accessible as possible. Visit our website to learn more about vaccine clinic options.

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We recognize that this may be a challenging time of transition as things shift from being required to recommended or encouraged. Please continue to be kind to yourselves and each other as we continue to navigate this pandemic. We will get through this together and will be with you every step of the way.

March 21, 2022

For your awareness, the last day of operation for the Eva James Memorial Centre Community Clinic (65 Stonehaven Drive) will be on March 19th to allow this facility to resume their regular recreational activities and programming for area residents.
 
To provide more accessibility and additional vaccination options for residents in the west end, OPH will be establishing a new community clinic at the Kanata Recreational Complex (100 Charlie Rogers Place) starting on March 22nd. The hours of operation for the Kanata Recreational Complex Community Clinic are Tuesday to Thursday from 12:45 pm to 7:10 pm; Friday and Saturday from 9:45 am to 4:10 pm. Our website and the community clinics section will be updated shortly.
 
OPH continues to move its vaccination efforts to a more targeted approach and multiple vaccination options remain available. Families can drop in and speak to a public health nurse about the COVID-19 vaccine and receive their vaccine at any of the after-school COVID-19 vaccination clinics, community clinics, pop-up clinics and neighbourhood hubs.  Community clinic appointments can also be booked ​online or by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900. Options are also available at local pharmacies or at some primary care providers
March 2, 2022

Special Statement from Dr. Vera Etches

March 1, 2022  
Last night the Board of Health held its second meeting of the year. I provided a verbal update, which you can watch in full on YouTube and read a high-level recap below.
  
The pandemic has been a common stressor for all of us impacting our well-being and resiliency. After two years of living with COVID-19, many of us have various losses to grieve – the loss of loved ones, employment, social celebrations of important milestones, educational achievements. The losses are unique, and some have been harder hit than others. Recognizing this grief, I call on Ottawa residents to be compassionate and kind to one another as we make the transition to shifting public health measures, and we turn to recovering our well-being. 

Some of us may need additional supports at this time, including those impacted by the war in Ukraine and other conflicts and people recovering from traumatic experiences with the unlawful protests and trucks in their neighbourhoods. Ottawa Public Health will continue working with the community and with partners to address concerns raised by people most affected, while we share information and resources on how to address harms caused by crises and emergencies that affect people across the city. 

Update on local COVID-19 situation 
The COVID-19 measures that Ottawa Public Health monitors have been showing a steady decline since early January; however, we are seeing that decline begin to level off. As we navigate the changes in provincial guidance, a shift to individual risk assessment and risk mitigation is key. This means – especially if you or someone you live with is at risk for severe COVID-19 illness if infected – that you can still decrease the chances of infection by being vaccinated with a booster dose, wearing a mask in indoor spaces, practicing physical distancing and being careful about your number of close contacts, and time in crowds and in closed spaces. Please visit the Ottawa Public Health COVID-19 vaccination dashboard for more information about vaccinations in Ottawa. 

Lifting of provincial measures, proof of vaccination
As of yesterday, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required for all settings, though businesses and other settings may choose to continue to require proof of vaccination.  
Getting a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine provides the best protection against hospitalization and death. At this stage in the pandemic, two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine does not provide sufficient protection and we strongly recommend booster doses for everyone eligible. 
Ottawa Public Health will continue to closely monitor key indicators, such as how our hospitals are managing severe COVID-19 illness and new variants, and we will continue working with community partners to support people at higher risk of serious COVID-19 illness. On February 25, the Province issued updated regulations that means local medical officers of health no longer have the ability to issue letters of instruction under the Reopening Ontario Act with regard to proof of vaccination requirements. At this time Ottawa Public Health is not planning to recommend further public health measures for Ottawa as provincial restrictions are lifted. I will continue working with Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore to assess options should key indicators, including hospitalizations, start trending upward in a concerning way. 

Public Health COVID-19 recovery planning
Ottawa Public Health continues to advance recovery planning for the organization to return to more of its mandate. While the plan is to scale back our COVID-19 response step-by-step, we must remain flexible and be ready to respond to pressures created by the virus when needed.  
Ottawa Public Health is now in Step 2 of 5 of its recovery plan roadmap and is working to gather input from diverse groups to inform recovery planning and to identify community and population health needs now and into the future. 
 
As part of the recovery planning, Ottawa Public Health is also examining how to support the community to recover. Many Ottawa residents will need time, space and supports to meaningfully recover. The pandemic has disproportionately affected Ottawa residents who faced health inequalities prior to the pandemic.  

Community recovery is an opportunity for economic, social and health stakeholders - in collaboration with partners, communities and individuals - to come together to assess how the complexity of community needs have changed, and to shape new or adapted services together. 

With respect to economic recovery, we acknowledge and understand that public health measures and provincial restrictions have affected individuals and the business community in many ways. Workplaces have had to adapt to various work models – with some employees working on-site, some working from home and planning for an eventual return to work in-person, while others have had to close due to restrictions. Our team has developed the Working Towards Recovery: Workplace Health and Wellness Guide to help support the mental health and wellness of employers and employees in the workplace. 

Lastly, I want to emphasize that social connections and engagement in workplaces – in person - are an important part of recovery from the pandemic. This means reconnecting with friends and family, returning to in-person meetings and supporting local businesses, keeping in mind we need to do our own individual risk assessment and risk mitigation. People of all ages have been affected by social isolation and we can each help re-establish health-promoting connections. Again, let’s continue to lead with compassion and kindness towards each other as we have done time and again with patience and perseverance throughout the pandemic. ​
December 2021

We would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year and hope that 2022 brings good health and joy to each of you.

Well this is a really hard message to write.  If I had done it a couple of weeks ago, it would have had a very different tone.  But alas, this one is not what I had hoped to share.  Just when we started to function again, the covid Gods said not so soon..  So we will sit back and get through the next wave.  The good news is that this round doesn’t seem to be a difficult as the last one even though it is travelling much more widely and quickly.  Keep the faith folks, we will see “normalcy” in hopefully not the too distant future.

The Kanata Seniors Council had geared up to start some of our programs and will certainly be ready as soon as we can.

John, Frank and their team have been working diligently to get the Café in limited service mode.   One of their problems has been finding volunteers to work in the Café upon opening.  We hope to re-open the end of January or February and will need staff.  If you have time to spare and could help us by working a shift, please contact us for details of shifts. John Frank or Rachel (our volunteer coordinator).  [email protected] , [email protected],  [email protected]
​
We hope to see everyone healthy and returning to the Centre soon and in themean time stay safe.
August 17, 2021
August 5, 2021

Vaccines continue to be available for anyone age 12 and over requiring a first or second dose.

For more information:

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July 14, 2021
 
Residents are encouraged to use drop-in clinics and move up late appointments to achieve Ottawa’s two-dose summerOttawa – Update: 
  • Get a vaccine without an appointment at select drop-in clinics 
  • Move up your September and October vaccine appointments 
  • Other options to get your vaccine 
 
Get a vaccine without an appointment at select clinics  
Beginning tomorrow, residents can drop in to select community clinics in Ottawa to receive a first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine without an appointment.  
 
While all clinics are offering drop-ins for first doses, second dose drop-ins will only take place at clinics that have enough supply. This will change daily.  The list of locations will be updated daily on ottawapublichealth.ca and on the City’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. 
 
Move up your September and October vaccine appointments 
This initiative is especially useful for individuals with second dose appointments in late August, through to November so that they can move up their appointments to July or early August. Most of these appointments were booked automatically through the provincial booking system when individuals made their first dose appointments. Unfortunately, many of these appointments are for clinic times and dates that will no longer exist due to progress in the City’s vaccine distribution plan. 
 
You are able to receive your second dose at least 28 days after receiving an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer), and at least eight weeks after receiving AstraZeneca vaccine.  
 
To cancel your September or October appointment and replace it with an earlier one, visit the provincial booking system or use this tool. 
 
Other options to get your vaccine: 
  • Sign up weekly for a COVID-19 vaccine wait list to receive an alert when a last-minute appointment becomes available near you. Ottawa Public Health will contact you by text, email or phone.  
  • Book an appointment through the provincial booking tool or a local pharmacy 
  • Visit a drop-in clinic if you live in a priority neighbourhood 
 
After you have been vaccinated you will receive a confirmation email with proof of vaccination. Remember to check your junk folder. You can also get a vaccine receipt through Ontario.ca/bookvaccine. 
 
Interchanging vaccines 
Community clinics are administering the mRNA vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer), and residents will be informed on-site which one they are receiving. Since interchanging vaccines is safe and effective, the priority is to receive two doses of any vaccine to complete the series and be fully protected.  
 
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401).  You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Support from Western Ottawa CRC

Listing a bunch of community organizations, groups, and leaders to share services and programs we’re offering at Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre. Lots are virtual and phone-based, some are available in-person, and there’s something in support of all ages and demographics. Especially during this time, we hope you might help us spread the word about these services. Up-to-date programs are available on our website and posted regularly on social media.
 
Two additional resources:
Counselling Connect provides quick access to a free phone or video counselling session, available in English and French. You choose a convenient date and time. This service is for everyone: children, youth, adults and families in Ottawa and the surrounding area. There is no waiting list. You, your partner or your children may be concerned about:
✓ Sleep issues
✓ Anxiety and depression
✓ Bullying
✓ Behavioural issues
✓ Separation
✓ Relationships
✓ Grief and loss
✓ Drugs and alcohol
✓ Gender and sexuality
✓ Adjusting to life in Canada
✓ Problem gambling
✓ Isolation and loneliness
https://www.counsellingconnect.org/
 
Unsafe at Home Ottawa is a secure text and online chat service for women and members of LGBTQ2S+ communities in Ottawa and Lanark County who may be living through increased violence and abuse at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our personnel provides emotional support, practical advice and referrals using encrypted technology so conversations are confidential and secure.
We can help you:
  • Talk about how you’re feeling
  • Create a safety plan to reduce your risk of harm
  • Get you the services you need for support
  • Cope with your situation during this period of physical distancing
TEXT 613-704-5535
https://unsafeathomeottawa.ca/
​               Have fun, stay active, and be COVIDwise in our parks

One of the essential allowances in the stay-at-home order is exercising outdoors, which contributes to everyone’s overall physical and mental health.  

You and your family have plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and get some fresh air and exercise. Some safety precautions need to be taken to help slow down the surge of COVID-19 and variants-of-concern cases. With more residents getting vaccinated each week, we can look forward to better days ahead.

Wearing masks in City parks
Ottawa Public Health strongly recommends people wear masks in the park. Though it may be necessary to remove masks for some vigorous activities, you are encouraged to keep your mask on as much as possible. The COVID-19 variants-of-concern, which are prominent in the community, are much more contagious and transmissible – even outdoors. Masks protect residents from the spread and will help turnaround the current surge of the virus.

Social gathering restrictions limit no more than five outdoors
Whether you are in a park, a public space, or your back or front yard, the social gathering limit is no more than five people. The social gathering limit does not apply with respect to a gathering of members of a single household, or with one other person from outside that household who lives alone. And when you’re with others from outside your household, be sure to remain vigilant in practicing physical distancing.

Sports fields and ball diamonds
Sports fields and ball diamonds will remain closed until current restrictions are eased to allow sports activities. Permits for synthetic turf fields are also suspended until further notice.

The current provincial regulations do not allow team or group recreation, sports play, scrimmage or training.

Tennis court activities
The nets on City-owned tennis courts will be installed starting in mid-April and be completed by early May. Until nets are installed, courts can be used for informal non-team sports including singles tennis and pickleball. The activity must adhere to physical distancing. It is highly recommended that masks be worn when playing and waiting to go on the court and social gathering restrictions apply. It’s strongly recommended to play with people from your same household.

Basketball courts
No scrimmage or team play is permitted, and social gathering restrictions apply. People can shoot hoops and some one-on-one is permitted – preferably with members of your household. Maintain physical distancing on and off the court. Wear a mask as much as possible on and off the courts.

Casual sports play – tossing a ball or hitting pop-flies
Like basketball, no team play or scrimmages are permitted in the park and outdoor social gathering rules apply. However, you can take part in some casual activities, like pop-flies or play catch while maintaining physical distancing. Again, it’s preferred to stick with members of your household for these activities. Wear a mask as much as possible.

Skate parks
Skate parks are popular with so many young people in our city. Here are some important key safety tips:
  • Wear a mask when waiting for your turn, watching fellow skaters and as much as possible when using the facility.
  • Maintain physical distancing between yourself and others outside of your immediate household.
  • Leave the park if it’s too crowded and come back at a less crowded time.

Play structures and playground equipment
Play structures, swings, slides and other playground amenities are open. The social gathering limit of no more than five people applies and children and parents are strongly encouraged to wear masks around the play structure.

The social gathering limit does not apply with respect to a gathering of members of a single household, or with one other person from outside that household who lives alone. Ensure your children avoid touching their faces and ensure their hands are washed with soap and water or hand sanitizer while you’re at the park and when you get home. Help your children to maintain physical distancing from people outside your household.
Transit Commission COVID-19 Service adjustments update
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​Bookings available now for eligible residents to receive the COVID-19 vaccine

March 1, 2021 – Bookings are now available for COVID-19 vaccinations for some Ottawa residents.
Residents who were born in or before 1941, or who are adult recipients of chronic home care, and who live in the following communities are eligible to receive their vaccine starting Friday, March 5:
• Emerald Woods
• Heatherington
• Ledbury
• Heron Gate
• Ridgemont
• Riverview
• Sawmill Creek

To confirm that you are eligible for vaccination, please visit Ottawa Public Health’s COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Screening https://secureforms.ottawapublichealth.ca/vaccines/COVID-19-Vaccine-Screening-Tool

If you are eligible, please call 613-691-5505 to book your appointment. Service providers can take your call between 7:30 am and 6 pm, Monday to Friday, and 8:30 am to 4 pm Saturday and Sunday. Service is available in multiple languages.

Walk-ins will not be accepted, so please call in advance to book your appointment.

We are asking residents who are not eligible for this week’s vaccine pop-up clinics not to call this booking phone line, as it is only for eligible residents. Please help us keep phone lines open for those who are eligible to receive a vaccine.

Pop-up clinics will be operating in these locations. Dates and times will be confirmed when you make your appointment.
• Albion Heatherington Community Centre, 1560 Heatherington Road
• Sawmill Creek Pool and Community Centre, 3380 D’Aoust Avenue
• Assunnah Muslims Association Community Centre, 1216 Hunt Club Road

Accommodations will be made for residents who need help with accessibility and all sites are accessible. If you are a Para Transpo user, you can book your ride to the pop-up clinic like you would normally do. If a transportation option is not available to you, you can request a ride to and from the clinic when you book your vaccine appointment.

If you were born in or before 1941 or are an adult recipient of chronic home care and do not live in these neighbourhoods, you are not eligible for a vaccine at these pop-up clinics. This is due to the limited supply of vaccines. Additional pop-up clinics in more neighbourhoods will be announced next week.

Community clinics are also expected to open later in March for all other Ottawa residents who were born in or before 1941, or who are recipients of chronic home care, pending vaccine delivery. Booking for these appointments will begin in mid-March. More information will be available in the coming weeks on how to book these appointments. Please do not call the booking phone line regarding these appointments at this time.

Background
​
Due to the current limited supply of vaccine, those who are at the highest risk are being vaccinated first. Rates of COVID-19 in the neighbourhoods where residents are at highest risk of the virus are on average five times higher than in the rest of Ottawa. In some cases, they are 16 times higher. Risks for hospitalization and death are also higher. Limiting hospitalizations will help the whole community and protect our health care system.

Pending vaccine availability, vaccinations will be rolled out in the coming weeks to more neighbourhoods where residents are at the greatest risk of COVID-19.

Residents of all ages who are not yet eligible for the vaccine are encouraged to follow announcements on the City of Ottawa and OPH websites and social media channels, and from your local news media to learn when they can receive their vaccine.

The Ontario government has identified adults aged 80 and older and adult recipients of chronic home care as priority groups to receive COVID-19 vaccinations during Phase 1 of the vaccine distribution plan. Please refer to Ontario’s vaccine distribution plan for details on other priority groups within Phase 1 of the plan. Caregivers, partners or roommates who were born after 1941 are not eligible at this time.

Visit ottawa.ca for more information on the City’s vaccination distribution plan.
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New provincial direction for the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine

The provincial government recently increased the number of people who could receive a vaccine in Phase 1 of its three-phase COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan. Specifically, Ontario residents born in the year 1941 or earlier will be eligible for vaccination in March, subject to vaccine availability. Adult recipients of chronic home care are also eligible as part of Phase 1, among others.

What this means for Ottawa residents born in the year 1941 or earlier and adult recipients of chronic home care
Unfortunately, there are not enough vaccines available to vaccinate all the residents in Ottawa that belong to these groups at this time. Ottawa Public Health has done an extensive review to determine who is most at risk to COVID-19 so that vaccines can be prioritized in these areas.

As a result, pop-up vaccination clinics are being set up in neighbourhoods where the risk is highest.

Which neighbourhoods are getting the vaccine?

The first neighbourhoods to be eligible for the vaccine are:
• Emerald Woods
• Heatherington
• Ledbury
• Heron Gate
• Ridgemont
• Riverview
• Sawmill Creek

Please refer to the attached maps if you are uncertain if you live in these areas. An eligibility tool is also available
https://secureforms.ottawapublichealth.ca/vaccines/COVID-19-Vaccine-Screening-Tool.

Only residents who were born in or before 1941 or who are recipients of adult chronic home care and who live in these neighbourhoods will be able to book an appointment.

How to book and where to book an appointment?

If you meet these requirements and live in one of these neighbourhoods, you must book your appointment in advance. Walk-ins cannot be accepted.

To confirm that you are eligible for vaccination, please see the eligibility lookup.

Call 613-691-5505 to book your appointment. This number can serve residents in multiple languages.

The COVID-19 pop-up clinics are as follows:

Friday, March 5; Saturday March 6; Sunday March 7
Albion Heatherington Recreation Centre
1560 Heatherington Road

Monday, March 8; Wednesday March 10; Saturday, March 13
Assunnah Muslims Association
1216 Hunt Club Road

Tuesday, March 9; Friday, March 12
Sawmill Creek Community Centre
3380 D’Aoust Avenue

You will need an OHIP card or proof of age and proof of address to get your vaccination. If you do not have an OHIP card, proof of age and address could be identification like a driver’s license or passport, and a bill with your postal code on it, like a hydro bill. You will also need to complete the COVID-19 Vaccine Screening and Consent Form.

Accommodations will be made for residents who need help with accessibility and all sites are accessible.

Transportation to pop-up clinics

Residents who are eligible for vaccination are encouraged to make a transportation plan in advance of their appointment. This could include asking a family member or caregiver to provide you with a ride to your designated pop-up clinic. It could also include booking a ride with Para Transpo if you use this service. If a transportation option is not available to you, you can request a ride to and from the clinic when you book your appointment. City partners will be able to assist with transportation for those who cannot make their own transportation plan.

How was the decision made to vaccinate in these neighbourhoods?

Rates of COVID-19 are on average five times higher than in the rest of Ottawa in neighbourhoods that have been identified for pop-up clinics. In some cases, they are 16 times higher. Risks for hospitalization and death are also higher. If we limit hospitalizations in these communities, it will not only benefit the residents who live there, it will help all residents by making sure our health systems aren’t overwhelmed.

Vaccinations for Indigenous residents

Vaccinations are being provided by the Wabano Centre to First Nations, Inuit and Métis community members 55 years of age and older at the St-Laurent Recreation Complex at 525 Côté St. Appointments can be booked by calling Ottawa Public Health at 613-691-5505.

The Akausivik Family Medical Centre is vaccinating Inuit residents 55 years of age and older. Call Akausivik Inuit Family Health Team at 613-740-0999 to book an appointment at 24 Selkirk St Suite 300. Proof of Indigenous status and age will be required to receive a vaccination.

Frontline staff from Indigenous community agencies delivering any type of health service can book an appointment to get vaccinated by calling either Akausivik or OPH to book an appointment at one of these two clinic options.

Only residents who meet the criteria will be vaccinated

Under the province’s direction, caregivers, partners or roommates of people who were born after 1941, of those receiving chronic home care, or of Indigenous individuals who do not meet any of the above criteria are not eligible at this time.

Next steps

Vaccinations will be rolled out to more neighbourhoods where the risk of COVID-19 is highest in the coming weeks. More information on these clinics will be shared next week. Community clinics will open for all Ottawa residents who were born in or before 1941 or who are adult recipients of chronic home care when there are enough vaccines in Ottawa. This is expected to take place in late March. If there is enough vaccine supply, community clinics could open sooner.

How to get information on vaccine distribution

Announcements from the City of Ottawa and Ottawa Public Health on the next steps for vaccine distribution will take place on Mondays.

Residents of all ages who are not yet eligible for the vaccine are encouraged to follow announcements on the City of Ottawa and Ottawa Public Health websites and social media channels, and from your local news media to learn when they can receive their vaccine.

You can connect with the City of Ottawa on social media through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also follow Ottawa Public Health on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Who else is receiving the vaccine?

Ontario’s Ministry of Health has identified priority health care workers as eligible for vaccination, including hospital employees, staff who work or study in hospitals and health care personnel. Staff, residents and caregivers in long-term care and retirement homes and Indigenous older adults are also eligible. Vaccination of these groups is occurring simultaneously through multiple delivery agents, including mobile vaccination teams, The Ottawa Hospital Clinic, the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health and the Akausivik Inuit Family Health Team.

Please refer to Ontario’s vaccine distribution plan for additional details on eligible groups within Phase 1 of the plan.
https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontarios-vaccine-distribution-implementation-plan

Visit ottawa.ca for more information on the City’s vaccination distribution plan. For information on the COVID-19 vaccine, including information on its safety, please visit ottawapublichealth.ca.
                                                            Halloween Guidance

Earlier this morning, the Province of Ontario announced its recommendations and public health advice on how to stay safer this Halloween.  
 
The Province advised that:
“Given the high transmission of COVID-19 in the modified Stage 2 public health unit regions of Ottawa, Peel, Toronto and York Region, traditional door-to-door trick or treating is not recommended and people should consider alternative ways to celebrate. This can include, but is not limited to:
  • Encouraging kids to dress up and participate in virtual activities and parties;
  • Organizing a Halloween candy hunt with people living in their own household;
  • Carving pumpkins;
  • Having a movie night or sharing scary stories; and,
  • Decorating front lawns.
 
To have a safer and happy Halloween, Ontarians should follow some simple steps:
  • Avoid gatherings with people outside of your household;
  • Stay home if you are feeling ill, even if you have mild symptoms, or if you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19;
  • If you live outside the modified Stage 2 public health unit regions and are going to go out to trick or treat:
    • Only go out with members of your household;
    • Only trick or treat outside;
    • Both trick or treaters and people handing out candy should wear a face covering. A costume mask is not a substitute for a face covering and should not be worn over a face covering as it may make it difficult to breathe;
    • Do not congregate or linger at doorsteps and remember to line up two metres apart if waiting. Avoid high-touch surfaces and objects;
    • Whether collecting or handing out treats, wash your hands often and thoroughly, or use hand sanitizer; and
    • Do not leave treats in a bucket or bowl for children to grab and consider using tongs or other similar tools to hand out treats.”
 
You can find additional guidance on the Province’s Halloween Briefing.  
 
This guidance mirrors OPH’s recent guidance to be HALLOWISE:
  • H:   Haunt your mind by sharing scary stories with friends on Facetime or Zoom. 
  • A:  Adapt your celebration by trick or treating inside with the people you live with or with your chosen social support person(s) if you live alone.  Think an Easter Egg hunt but Halloween themed.  
  • L:  Limit your in-person celebration to those you live with or your chosen social support person(s) if you live alone. 
  • L:  Launch a virtual competition with your neighbors for the best outdoor Halloween decorations.   
  • O:  Organize a virtual costume party with your friends.   
  • W:  Watch scary or fun movies with the people you live with or your chosen social support person(s) if you live alone. 
  • I:   Inspire your costume around a mask… how can you create the most thematic 2020 costume? 
  • S:  Show kindness by sharing photos, or connecting virtually, instead of hugs with your loved ones who are more at risk. 
  • E:  Eat a fun and spooky meal you’ve made with those you live with or that chosen social support person(s) if you live alone. 
                                                  Thanksgiving Greetings from OPH​

​At Ottawa Public Health, there are many things for which we are grateful. The amount of support received by OPH from our City colleagues, Ottawa residents and the community has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging year. Unfortunately, holidays are going to look and feel different during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
Data shows COVID-19 is spreading too fast in Ottawa because of everyday actions that bring too many of us in close contact with others without masks on. We are falling behind. Prevention is the only way that we can slow the crisis in the rest of our health system. 
 
It is for this reason that I am recommending that residents who plan on celebrating Thanksgiving should stay local, keep gatherings to members of their household only, and connect with extended family and friends virtually instead of in person. 
 
Although current provincial guidance allows for up to 10 people indoors and 25 outdoors, due to the extent of COVID-19 transmission in Ottawa, OPH recommends limiting gatherings as much as possible. In other words, limit gatherings to those who live in your household or those providing support services, such as a caregiver.  If you live alone (single parent, student, etc.), one or two contacts outside your home can be important social supports to draw on.
 
OPH has published Guidance for Social Gatherings During COVID-19 on the OPH website to help support residents during the holiday and winter season. Included below are draft social media posts that you are welcome to use to help share this information with your constituents. 
 
If we do not slow the transmission, it will lead to stricter lockdown, closure of businesses, public venues and even schools.  
 
Please, if you have plans to gather with friends or acquaintances this weekend, I am asking you to reconsider. Please encourage your friends, family and those in your community to continue to think about how their actions can impact others within the community. Individual actions matter. 
 
Wishing you a happy and safe Thanksgiving

                                                                                                  _____________________________________

Before you go out and buy a turkey for Thanksgiving be sure to check @ottawahealth’s guidance for social gatherings during COVID-19. https://bit.ly/3js6kxH   
  
Avant d’aller acheter une dinde pour l’Action de grâces, n’oubliez pas de consulter les directives de @ottawasante concernant les rencontres sociales durant la COVID-19.  https://bit.ly/2SBNw3g  
 

Help keep COVID-19 from spreading in our community. Celebrate Thanksgiving safely with tips and tricks from @ottawahealth: https://bit.ly/3js6kxH   
  
 Contribuez à freiner la propagation de la COVID-19 dans notre communauté. Célébrez l’Action de grâces en toute sécurité avec ces trucs et astuces de @ottawasante : https://bit.ly/2SBNw3g  
 

Planning your Thanksgiving dinner? Consider celebrating with those outside of your household virtually this year. https://bit.ly/3js6kxH   
  
 Vous planifiez un dîner de l’Action de grâces? Envisagez de célébrer virtuellement cette année avec les personnes ne faisant pas partie de votre ménage. https://bit.ly/2SBNw3g  
 

Holidays are going to look and feel different during the COVID-19 pandemic. @ottawahealth has tips and tricks for celebrating safely. 
https://bit.ly/3js6kxH   
  
 Les fêtes se présenteront et se vivront différemment cette année en raison de la pandémie de COVID-19. @ottawasante a des trucs et des astuces pour vous aider à célébrer avec prudence. 
https://bit.ly/2SBNw3g  

September 29th, 2020                                                 

                                               School Outbreak Notifications from OPH / Avis de SPO sur les éclosions dans les écoles

As children and youth returned to school, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has provided updates to Councillors, Members of Parliament, and Members of Provincial Parliament whenever a COVID19 positive result confirmed in a school or when an outbreak occurs in a school in their constituency.

As the number of people confirmed with COVID-19 continues to climb daily, OPH will now be directing all elected officials to review the OPH daily dashboard to learn of the schools with new positive test results. OPH Health will continue to notify elected officials by individual email when a school in their constituency is in outbreak. The COVID-19 Outbreaks in Healthcare Institutions, Childcare, Summer Camps, and Educational Establishments is updated daily between 12:30pm and 1:00pm with the names of schools in Ottawa that have new and confirmed positive test results or that are in outbreak.

By clicking on the link provided, the viewer will be brought to a webpage where they can download the daily report. The report will open in Excel, providing the ability to search by location name (i.e. the name of the school) and facility type (i.e. school). Should you need assistance in navigating this dashboard, please contact Jessica Turner or Michael Benmergui, both cc’d here.

For further information, confirmed positive test results associated with schools can also be viewed daily on the Province’s COVID19 Cases in Schools and Child-Care Centres webpage.

                                                            _____________________________________________________________________________________

29 Septembre, 2020

Dans le cadre de la rentrée scolaire des enfants et des jeunes, Santé publique Ottawa (SPO) a fourni des mises à jour aux conseillers, aux députés provinciaux et fédéraux chaque fois qu’il y avait un test positif de COVID-19 confirmé ou une éclosion dans une école dans leur circonscription.

Comme le nombre de personnes confirmées avec la COVID-19 continue d'augmenter chaque jour, SPO va maintenant demander à tous les élus de consulter le tableau de bord quotidien de SPO pour connaître les écoles ayant de nouveaux résultats positifs. SPO continuera d’aviser par courriel chaque représentant élu lorsqu’une éclosion survient dans une école dans leur circonscription. La page Éclosions de la COVID-19 dans les établissements de soins de santé, les services de garde, les camps d’été et les établissements scolaires est mise à jour quotidiennement entre 12 h 30 et 13 h. Elle contient les noms des écoles d'Ottawa qui ont des résultats positifs nouveaux et confirmés ou qui sont en situation d’éclosion.

En cliquant sur le lien fourni, le visiteur sera dirigé vers une page Web où il pourra télécharger le rapport quotidien. Le rapport s’ouvrira dans Excel pour permettre de chercher par nom d’emplacement (p. ex., le nom de l’école) et par type d’installation (p. ex., école). Si vous avez besoin d’aide pour consulter le tableau de bord, veuillez communiquer avec Jessica Turner ou Michael Benmergui, tous deux copiés sur ce courriel.

Pour en savoir plus, les résultats de tests positifs confirmés associés aux écoles peuvent également être consultés quotidiennement sur le site de la province - Cas de COVID-19 dans les écoles et les services de garde d’enfants.
Mapping of Confirmed COVID-19 in Ottawa

​https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/reports-research-and-statistics/mapping-products.aspx


PUBLIC  S E R V I C E  A N N O U N C E M E N T / M E S S A G E  D ’ I N T É R Ê T P U B L I C

Summary description: City extends expiry dates on swimming memberships

City extends expiry dates on swimming memberships

July 23, 2020 – The City will be extending current swimming membership expiry dates by 4.5 months.

The 4.5-month extension on the current swimming memberships covers the four months when operations were suspended due to the pandemic on March 16. Plus, it adds an extra two complimentary weeks to help members transition to the reopening.

Customers who pay for their membership by monthly installments on their credit cards will have payments resume on August 15. All monthly payments have been suspended since March 17. Customers who need to update their credit card information are asked to do so in-person at the pool facility, as credit card information cannot be updated online or over the phone.

The City resumed swimming services on July 6, with COVID-related measures in place. Now with the Province of Ontario moving Ottawa into stage 3 of its reopening framework, the City is planning to reopen its other services – including fitness activities – in the coming weeks. Information regarding the extension of other types of memberships – such as all-inclusive, one option, aquafitness and corporate – will be coming soon.

The COVID-related measures include reducing the number of swimmers at both the public and lane swims, hourly cleaning of areas and equipment, directional arrows for foot traffic, and physical-distancing decals. Masks can help decrease the risk of spreading the virus and are required when entering the facility or walking in the halls, but are not needed in the pool.

Members and customers can book a one-hour swimming session up to two days in advance online or by phoning the facility.

​For up-to-date information, visit ottawa.ca/covid19 or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-9656). You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
                                                    ____________________________________________________________

MESSAGE D’INTÉRÊT PUBLIC / PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Description sommaire : La Ville prolonge les dates d'expiration pour les abonnements au bain libre

La Ville prolonge les dates d'expiration pour les abonnements au bain libre

Le 23 juillet 2020 – La Ville prolongera de 4 1/2 mois la date d'expiration actuelle des abonnements au bain libre.

La prolongation de 4 1/2 mois des abonnements actuels au bain libre couvre les quatre mois où les opérations ont été suspendues en raison de la pandémie le 16 mars auxquels on a ajouté deux semaines pour aider les membres à faire la transition vers la réouverture.

Les paiements reprendront le 15 août pour les clients qui paient leur abonnement par versements mensuels sur leur carte de crédit. Tous les paiements mensuels sont suspendus depuis le 17 mars. On demande aux clients qui doivent mettre à jour leur information de carte de crédit de le faire en personne à la piscine, car elle ne peut pas être mise à jour en ligne ou par téléphone.

Ayant mis en place des mesures liées à la COVID, la Ville offre à nouveau ses services de natation depuis le 6 juillet. Maintenant que le gouvernement de l’Ontario fait passer Ottawa à la phase trois de son plan de déconfinement, la Ville prévoit relancer ses autres services, notamment les activités de conditionnement physique, dans les prochaines semaines. De l'information concernant la prolongation d'autres types d'abonnements, comme le tout inclus, l'abonnement à une seule activité, l'aquaforme ou l'abonnement pour entreprises, sera bientôt disponible.

Les mesures liées à la COVID comprennent la réduction du nombre de nageurs pour les bains libres et les longueurs, le nettoyage horaire des zones et de l'équipement, les flèches directionnelles pour faciliter la circulation et les autocollants de distanciation physique. Les masques peuvent aider à réduire le risque de propagation du virus et sont obligatoires lorsqu'on entre dans l'installation ou qu'on circule dans les corridors, mais ne sont pas nécessaires dans la piscine.

Les membres et les clients peuvent réserver une séance de natation d'une heure jusqu'à deux jours à l'avance en ligne ou en téléphonant à l'installation.

Pour obtenir des renseignements à jour, visitez le site ottawa.ca/fr/covid19 ou composez le 3-1-1 (ATS : 613-580-9656). Vous pouvez également communiquer avec nous sur Facebook, Twitter et Instagram.
Hi folks –
 
As we continue to deal with cases of COVID-19 in our city, I want you to know that I have asked for more options when it comes to testing.
 
Many people have written and called my office to discuss the current options and the issues they face in waiting to get tested.
I’m hearing that some people are not getting tested because the wait times can be hours or they fear spending long periods of time next to others who could be sick. There are also issues with waiting outside on hot and humid days.
 
I have started a conversation with Dr. Etches and Ottawa Public Health to request that they consider adding other  testing centres to alleviate the lines, as well I’d like to see a drive thru option added that would allow people to wait in their vehicles.
 
I appreciate everything that Dr. Vera Etches and the team at Ottawa Public Health are doing and thank them for all their hard work. ​
External Key Messages – City of Ottawa Reopening Plan

• Since the arrival of COVID-19 in March, residents have done an incredible job of following public health guidelines. Thanks to the hard work and sacrifices of our community, we have flattened the curve and slowed the spread of the virus.

• While we must remain vigilant, the City of Ottawa is now cautiously reopening and resuming some programs and services with safety being the top priority.

• The City’s plan is based on guidance from Ottawa Public Health and aligns with the Province of Ontario’s plan to gradually relax emergency orders.

• Public health, community support and economic recovery are all connected. Our phased reopening plan prioritizes programs and services that promote a safe and strategic expansion of Ottawa’s economy, with ongoing support for Ottawa’s vulnerable communities.

• Our reopening plan prioritizes public transit, recreation and childcare services to support residents returning to work and to provide relief during the warm summer months. Social services will reopen to support our most vulnerable. Counter services will resume by-appointment only.

• The safety of our residents and our employees is most important. All reopened services will follow public health guidelines.
  •        In-person services will look different. All facilities will include safety features such, as protective shields, physical                       distancing measures and sanitization amenities.
  •        Many City services will continue virtually.

City of Ottawa Immediate Emergency Response

• As part of the immediate response to COVID-19, the City closed public facilities, suspended non-essential services, activities and programs and declared a State of Emergency. These decisions were made at the advice of Ottawa Public Health and based on Provincial Orders.

• While some services geared down, we redeployed staff and resources to support our community’s critical needs. We expanded online and remote services to continue serving our residents while much of our administrative staff work from home.

• The City remains in a state of emergency so that we can react quickly, access critical resources and redeploy staff to priority areas.

Our Safety

As part of our reopening plan, we are implementing safety measures to protect the health and safety of residents and City employees.

• Residents have a major role to play in avoiding a second wave of positive cases.

• Everyone will have to remain vigilant and continue to follow public health guidelines:
  • Stay at home when sick
  • Practice physical distancing
  • Wearing cloth masks when physical distancing is not possible
  • Wash your hands often and avoid touching your face

• The City strongly recommends residents wear cloth masks while on City property when physical distancing isn’t possible. It is mandatory that transit customers wear cloth masks while on OC Transpo.

• We will actively monitor the situation and adjust if required. To avoid a resurgence of COVID-19 cases, the City is prepared to implement more stringent public health measures and may adjust the reopening plan at any time.

Our Services

• COVID-19 may be present in the community for a long time, so reopening means adapting.

• City services will gradually reopen in a phased approach:
  • Pre-Recovery Phase: Maintain and Adapt (March-June): Includes services that continued during the pandemic and resuming or reopening some services in an adapted way.
  • Recovery Phase 1: Restart (July): includes services that will restart in July in accordance with Provincial directives.
  • Recovery Phase 2: Augment (August): includes services that will be augmented in August in accordance with Provincial directives.

​• Many services will occur in new or different ways, including: increased virtual programming and online services, reduced group sizes, additional staffing for and facilities for programming, appointment based in-person counter services and contactless document drop off.

• On June 8, the Province of Ontario increased services permitted to reopen as part of their recovery plan. The City of Ottawa is currently reviewing several of the newly permitted services including:
  • Indoor pools except wave pools
  • Outdoor pools and wading pools
  • Outdoor team practices on sports fields and courts
  • Museums
  • Art galleries
  • Community centers for non-recreation services

• Overcoming the new and unique challenges we will face as a City as we reopen will require patience, flexibility and the combined efforts of City employees, residents and community partners.

• The City of Ottawa will continue to support Ottawa’s vulnerable populations to ensure help is available to those who need it.

• We will fuel Ottawa’s economic recovery by supporting activities that generate revenue for the City and local businesses while safeguarding the health of the community.
Our People

• Protecting the health of City employees is crucial to a smooth reopening. We will take every precaution to ensure the safety of all residents and City employees.

• To safeguard the health of residents and employees, the City will focus on retrofits and increased safety measures at facilities, personal protective equipment for employees where required and other preventative measures, such as cloth masks and workplace hygiene standards.

• The City will implement health screening protocols for clients and employees and facilities will be cleaned thoroughly and frequently.

• City employees who can work from home will continue to do so.

Our Finances

• COVID-19 has impacted the City’s finances. The unplanned emergency response costs coupled with the loss of revenue due to the closure or reduction of service has been significant. There will be impacts to our bottom line and forecasted deficit.

• The City has taken measures to cut or reduce spending and non-essential services wherever possible.

• The City has put in requests for financial support to the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario. We require backstop funding to provide resources, stability and certainty of essential services to support our city’s economic recovery.

• There will be service and program impacts if we do not receive financial support from the federal and provincial governments.

​•Staff are developing a full financial analysis, including options to reduce the forecasted deficit. A detailed financial report will be presented to City Council on June 24.
Messages clés externes - Plan de réouverture de la Ville d'Ottawa
​Depuis l’éclosion de la COVID-19 en mars dernier, les résidents ont fait un travail extraordinaire pour respecter les directives de la santé publique. Tous leurs efforts et leurs sacrifices nous ont permis d’aplanir la courbe et de ralentir la propagation du virus et je les en remercie.

• Bien que nous devions demeurer vigilants, la Ville d’Ottawa amorce prudemment sa réouverture et la reprise de certains de ses services et de ses programmes en mettant l’accent sur la sécurité.

• Le plan de la Ville se fonde sur les lignes directrices de Santé publique Ottawa et rejoint le plan du gouvernement ontarien en matière d’assouplissement des mesures d’urgence.

• La santé du public, le soutien de la communauté et le rétablissement de l’économie sont tous reliés. Notre plan de réouverture progressive met la priorité sur les programmes et les services qui favorisent la croissance stratégique de l’économie ottavienne, tout en continuant de soutenir les communautés vulnérables d’Ottawa.

• Notre plan de réouverture se polarise sur le transport en commun, les services récréatifs et de garde d’enfants pour venir en aide aux résidents qui reprennent le travail et pour offrir du répit durant les mois chauds de l’été. Les services sociaux rouvriront pour offrir leur aide à nos résidents les plus vulnérables. Les comptoirs des centres du service à la clientèle rouvriront également, mais sur rendez-vous seulement.

• La sécurité de nos résidents et de notre personnel passe avant tout. Tous les services rouverts respecteront les consignes de santé publique.
  • Les services offerts en personne auront un aspect différent. Toutes les installations comprendront des éléments de sécurité, notamment des visières de protection, des mesures de distanciation physique et des postes de désinfection.
  • De nombreux services municipaux continueront d’être offerts virtuellement.

Intervention d’urgence immédiate de la Ville d’Ottawa

• Dans le cadre de sa réponse immédiate à la COVID-19, la Ville a fermé les installations publiques, suspendu les services, les activités et les programmes non essentiels et déclaré l’état d’urgence. Ces décisions ont été prises comme suite aux recommandations de Santé publique Ottawa et des autorités provinciales.

• Tandis que certains services réduisaient leurs activités, nous avons redéployé du personnel et des ressources pour répondre aux besoins essentiels de notre communauté. Nous avons élargi nos services en ligne et à distance afin de pouvoir
Principaux messages externes

continuer à servir nos résidents pendant que la plus grande partie de notre personnel administratif travaillait à domicile.

• La Ville demeure en état d’urgence de façon à pouvoir réagir rapidement, accéder aux ressources essentielles et redéployer du personnel dans les secteurs prioritaires.
Notre sécurité

• Notre plan de réouverture comprend l’instauration de mesures de sécurité visant à protéger la santé et la sécurité des résidents et du personnel de la Ville.

• Les résidents ont un rôle important à jouer pour prévenir une seconde vague de cas positifs.

• Tout le monde devra demeurer vigilant et continuer à respecter les consignes de santé publique, soit :
  • restez chez vous si vous êtes malades;
  • pratiquez la distanciation physique;
  • portez un masque en tissu lorsque la distanciation physique est impossible;
  • lavez-vous les mains souvent et évitez de toucher à votre visage.

• La municipalité recommande fortement aux résidents de porter un masque en tissu quand ils se trouvent sur une propriété de la Ville où la distanciation physique n’est pas possible. Le port du masque en tissu est obligatoire pour les usagers du transport en commun qui empruntent OC Transpo.

• Nous continuerons de surveiller de près la situation pour apporter au besoin les ajustements qui s’imposent. Par ailleurs, afin d’éviter une résurgence de cas de COVID-19, la Ville s’apprête à instaurer des consignes de santé publique plus strictes et elle pourrait en tout temps modifier son plan de réouverture.

Nos services

• La COVID-19 pourrait demeurer présente longtemps dans la communauté et la réouverture signifie donc qu’il faut s’adapter.

• Les services municipaux rouvriront graduellement selon une approche progressive :
  • Phase préalable à la reprise des activités : maintien et adaptation (mars à juin) : inclut les services qui ont été maintenus durant la pandémie et la reprise ou la réouverture de certains services selon un mode de fonctionnement adapté.
  • Phase 1 du rétablissement : redémarrage (juillet) : inclut les services qui reprendront leurs activités en juillet conformément aux directives provinciales.
  • Phase 2 du rétablissement : accroissement (août) : inclut les services qui seront accrus au mois d’août conformément aux directives provinciales.

• De nombreux services seront offerts différemment, notamment : des services en ligne et des programmes virtuels accrus, de plus petits groupes, l’ajout de personnel et d’installations pour assurer la programmation, accès sur rendez-vous aux comptoirs des centres du service à la clientèle en personne et dépôt de documents sans contact.

• Le 8 juin, le gouvernement de l’Ontario a autorisé d’autres services à reprendre leurs activités dans le cadre de son plan de rétablissement. La Ville d’Ottawa examine actuellement plusieurs de ces services autorisés à reprendre leurs activités,
notamment :
  • les piscines intérieures à l’exception des pataugeoires;
  • les piscines et les pataugeoires extérieures;
  • les pratiques d’équipe sur les terrains de sport et les courts extérieurs;
  • les musées;
  • les galeries d’art;
  • les centres communautaires pour la prestation de services non récréatifs.

• La gestion des nouveaux problèmes particuliers qui accompagneront la réouverture de la Ville demandera de la patience, de la souplesse et les efforts conjugués du personnel municipal, des résidents et des partenaires communautaires.

• La Ville d’Ottawa continuera de soutenir les populations vulnérables pour s’assurer que de l’aide soit accessible pour tous ceux qui en ont besoin.

• Nous alimenterons la réouverture économique d’Ottawa en appuyant les activités qui génèrent des revenus pour la Ville et les entreprises locales, tout en protégeant la santé de la communauté.
Notre population

• La réouverture harmonieuse de la Ville passe par la protection de la santé de ses employés. Nous prendrons toutes les précautions nécessaires pour assurer la santé de tous les résidents et du personnel de la Ville.

• À cette fin, la Ville concentrera ses efforts sur les travaux de réfection et sur le renforcement des mesures de sécurité dans ses installations, sur l’accessibilité à de l’équipement de protection individuelle pour les employés le cas échéant ainsi que sur d’autres mesures de prévention, comme le port de masques en tissu et le respect des normes d’hygiène sur les lieux de travail.

• La Ville mettra en oeuvre des protocoles de dépistage sanitaire pour les clients et les employés et les installations seront nettoyées à fond et fréquemment.

• Les membres du personnel de la Ville qui peuvent travailler à domicile continueront de le faire.
Nos finances

• Les effets de la COVID-19 se sont aussi fait sentir sur les finances de la Ville. Les coûts associés à l’intervention d’urgence imprévue conjugués à la perte de recettes entraînée par la fermeture ou la réduction des services ont été considérables. Cela se répercutera sur nos résultats nets ainsi que sur le déficit prévu.

• La Ville a pris des mesures pour éliminer ou diminuer autant que possible les dépenses et les services non essentiels.

• La Ville a présenté des demandes d’aide financière aux gouvernements du Canada et de l’Ontario. Nous avons en effet besoin d’un financement de sûreté pour assurer les ressources, la stabilité et la prévisibilité des services essentiels afin de favoriser le rétablissement économique de notre ville.

• Si nous n’obtenons pas de financement des gouvernements fédéral et provincial, ce sont nos programmes et nos services qui en souffriront.

• Le personnel procède actuellement à une analyse financière complète, incluant les moyens de réduire le déficit prévu. Un rapport financier détaillé sera d’ailleurs présenté au Conseil municipal le 24 juin prochain.
Information on Medical and cloth masks 
Ottawa Public Health


There are many types of masks available, ranging from cloth masks to N95 respirator masks. Each type of mask has its place, but not every mask is appropriate for day to day use.
Cloth masks Cloth masks may include:
  • those that are made from cloth (for example: cotton);
  • those that have pockets or slots for replaceable filters;
  • and those that are used to cover other masks or respirators to prolong their use.

Even if you wear a cloth mask, physical distancing, hand washing, and monitoring your health continue to be very important. Keeping a 2-metre distance is important, but it isn’t always possible (e.g., in a grocery store, on the bus). Wearing a mask adds an extra layer of protection, especially for others in case you have COVID-19; it may also help reduce your risk in case others have COVID-19.

Singing, shouting, talking, breathing: all create micro-droplets. If you have COVID-19 you may not know it and your micro-droplets would be full of virus. Wearing a cloth mask is something you do to protect others in case you have COVID-19 but don’t know it. It may also help protect you from others who have COVID-19. Wearing a cloth mask is good for everyone. Remember when wearing any mask to still avoid touching your mask or your face.

If you are going to a public place, Ottawa Public Health asks residents to consider wearing a cloth mask, as they may offer some additional protection to those around you where physical distancing is challenging.
Medical MasksMedical masks and N95 respirators should not be worn by community members. Medical Masks and N95 respirators should be reserved for specific high-risk settings, and are not recommended for low-risk daily activities. For health care workers looking for information on personal protective equipment, please refer to our section on Infection Prevention and Control.

Resources
Need more information on Masks and purchases? Please click below to take you to the Mask Section for Ottawa Public Health

https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/public-health-topics/masks.aspx#13-Where-can-I-purchase-a-cloth-mask-in-Ottawa-
While the branches of the Ottawa Public Library may be closed, staff have been busy working behind the scenes to provide online services and to stay in touch with our valued communities. The library has lots to inspire, encourage, and entertain you and your clients during this period of social distancing. If you feel that your colleagues or clients would benefit from learning about any of these services, please don’t hesitate to share this information or to reach out to us.

​1) Isolation Recreation: Online for you! The Ottawa Public Library offers you content for leisure and learning... all at your fingertips. Isolation does not equal boredom - and we can help you answer the question: What can I do today? Creative activities, wellness tips, literary and cultural gems, learning tools, and much more! Discover OPL’s amazing online content that will help you make the most of this time out.

2) Virtual visits: A staff member from the Hazeldean Branch of the library would be happy to participate in virtual meetings held for your workplace or your communities. We can provide information to you and your colleagues about our services, and how your clients/community can access library services during this time. If you have a live streamed event or a town hall, library staff would also be pleased to attend either as audience members or as participants, and can share information about the Ottawa Public Library directly with your community.

3) Online programming: From live story times, to poetry slams, to author events, the Ottawa Public Library has a growing assortment of online programs for all ages. If you’re looking for virtual programming designed with your clients in mind, let us know!

4) Online resources: With a free library membership, residents have access to hundreds of online resources, including eBooks, online magazines and newspapers, encyclopedias, language learning tools, movies, music, and more.

5) #AskaLibrarian: Many residents are missing their visits to library branches, and we miss them too. While we can’t meet and offer reading suggestions in person, residents can connect with library staff from Ottawa and around the world by participating in the weekly #AskaLibrarian event. Residents can receive personalized reading recommendations for titles available via digital download.
 
BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca
[email protected] (Inquiries for Hazeldean branch)
InfoService 613-580-2940 or [email protected] (General inquiries)
To all Ottawa-area Community Associations,

Thank you to the residents of Ottawa who continue to support planking the curve – staying home and keeping physical distance. We can change the impact that this pandemic has on our city when we all work together. 

It is important to recognize that the COVID-19 situation is evolving very quickly. Please refer to OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Coronavirus to stay up-to-date on the latest information. 

The actions that members of your groups and organizations are taking will save lives and make a difference for your friends, family, neighbours, and colleagues. Remember that COVID-19 affects everyone: regardless of age and current health status. It is important for all of us to continue to practice physical distancing. This means:
  • Stay home as much as possible. Only leave your property for essential travel such as grocery shopping or visiting a pharmacy;
  • Stay at least 2 metres (6 feet) away from people outside of your household;
  • Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often;
  • Do not touch your face with unwashed hands;
  • Clean phones and other devices, and frequently touched surfaces regularly.
 
For more information on physical distancing visit: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/PhysicalDistancing

Masks
Medical masks and N95 respirators should not be worn by healthy community members.

Wearing non-medical masks may offer additional protection, especially when physical distancing is hard to maintain (e.g. in a grocery store, on the bus). Non-medical masks may include those that are made from cloth (for example cotton); those that have pockets to insert filters; and those that are used to cover other masks or respirators to prolong their use. Wearing a non-medical mask is NOT a replacement for physical distancing, hand washing, and monitoring your health.

For more information about the use of masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19, please visit: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Masks
Symptoms and Testing Criteria
If you are in distress (e.g. significant trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or have a significant worsening of any chronic disease symptoms), do not go to the Assessment Centre or a COVID-19 Care clinic. Go to the nearest Emergency Department or call 9-1-1.

·       COVID-19 has common symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
·       COVID-19 also has less common symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, delirium (a serious medical condition that involves            confusion, changes to memory, and odd behaviours), falls, acute functional decline, worsening of chronic conditions, nausea,            vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, chills, headaches, croup, or loss of taste/smell.
·       COVID-19 may also present as new or worsening respiratory symptoms such as: sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, nasal                    congestion, hoarse voice, or difficulty swallowing

The following list of individuals are recommended to be tested for COVID-19 IF they have at least one common symptom of COVID-19 OR one less common symptom of COVID-19 OR one new or worsening respiratory symptom (see list of symptoms above):

·       Healthcare workers or staff who work in health care facilities and members of their households;
·       Residents and staff in long-term care homes, retirement homes, correctional facilities, homeless shelters, mental health                      institution, hospice, and other congregate living settings;
·       Hospitalized individuals and those who likely will be hospitalized;
·       Members of remote, isolated, rural, and/or indigenous communities;
·       Caregivers and care providers;
·       First responders such as firefighters, police, and paramedics;
·       Individuals with frequent healthcare contact such as patients with cancer or undergoing chemotherapy, dialysis therapy, pre-              or post-transplant, pregnancy, and newborns.

The following list of individuals are recommended to be tested for COVID-19 IF they have at least one common symptom of COVID-19 such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.

·       Close contacts of confirmed or probable cases;
·       Returning international travelers who seek medical attention;
·       Critical infrastructure workers – this includes grocery stores, food services, maintenance and transportation workers, and                  utilities.

Patients who meet the criteria above will be tested for COVID-19, which involves taking a sample from the throat or nose with a swab.

If you think you have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has it, use the COVID-19 self-assessment tool to help determine how to seek further care

This revised testing criteria has been added to the Ottawa Public Health website: www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca

Testing and Treatment Locations

Assessment Centre – Brewer Park
151 Brewer Way
Accessed from Bronson Avenue opposite Carleton University
Open 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., 7 days a week

COVID-19 Care Clinic – Moodie Location
595 Moodie Drive
Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

COVID-19 Care Clinic – Heron Location
1485 Heron Road
Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Anyone with serious illness should never hesitate to go to Emergency Departments. The Ottawa-area hospitals all have capacity to provide emergency service to those who need it, and are using strict infection prevention and control measures.
 
Multilingual COVID Information
​
Ottawa Public Health is working to ensure all community members have access to important information to reduce the spread of COVID-19. We have developed a website with essential COVID-19 information offered in over 30 languages. www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVIDMultilingual

Supports for Victims and Survivors of Domestic Violence

Unfortunately, physical isolation has increased risk and incidence of elder, spousal, LGBTQ2, and child abuse. We want to encourage people to access the incredible resources available to help prevent and assist in these situations. 

  • The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario;
  • The Children’s Aid Society;
  • The Distress Centre of Ottawa 613-238-3311;
  • The Youth Services Bureau Crisis Line 613-260-2360 or visit chat.ysb.ca;
  • Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 or text #686868;
  • The Champlain Community Support Network’s resources for older Adults;
  • The Ottawa Police Service.

There is also a new program launched with the support of Crime Prevention Ottawa, “Unsafe At Home Ottawa,” a chat and text resource for people who feel trapped at home with someone who is abusive. To use this program, you can send a text to 613-704-5535 or chat online at UnsafeAtHomeOttawa.ca.  

Helping children cope during the COVID-19 pandemic

Being apart from friends and family can be challenging for everyone. For children and teens, it can be even more difficult. It is important that everyone practice physical distancing, but this idea can be hard for young people to understand. Here are some things parents can do to help their children cope with this situation.

·       Reassure them that they are safe;
·       Encourage them to ask questions, and to talk about how they feel;
·       Be understanding – they may have problems sleeping, be upset, and need extra care and attention;
·       Remember that kids look to their parents to feel safe and to know how to respond – reassure them and let them know you’ll              tackle this together;
·       Try to keep to normal routines and schedules – allow them to get outside and have supervised play. This is not a play date, so          while out, remind them to keep 2 metres or 6 feet from others;
·       Encourage them to keep in touch with their friends or other kids their age through supervised video chats or phone calls;

Physical Distancing for Parents, Teens, and Children
 
Physical distancing involves taking steps to limit the number of people with whom you and your family come into close contact. As COVID-19 spreads from person-to-person through direct contact or over short distances by droplets through coughing or sneezing, this is critical to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community. A person may also get COVID-19 by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their mouth, nose, or possibly eyes. Though being apart from friends and family can be challenging even for adults, it can feel more like the end of the world for children and teens. Children can be more easily socially distanced than teens, who – quite frankly – push back more out of a need for greater independence.

The concept of physical distancing applies outside your home. Household contacts (people you live with) do not need to distance from each other unless they are sick or have travelled within the past 14 days. Physical distance and emotional distance are not the same. These recommendations are meant to keep physical space from other households, while staying emotionally connected! 

Support for Older Adults

Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health is strongly urging those over the age of 70 to stay at home and self-isolate. Follow these general instructions on self-isolation.

While seniors' activity centres across Ottawa have shut down to limit the spread of COVID-19 among the vulnerable older adult population, senior/community centres continue to coordinate volunteers, plan meals, and reach out by phone.

Resources available:
 
For more information on activities and services, please visit our webpage for Older Adults.

Mental Health and COVID-19

Check in with yourself. It’s OK not to be OK. It is normal for situations like these to affect your mental health.
  • If you are in crisis, please contact the Mental Health Crisis Line (24 hours a day/7 days a week) at 613-722-6914 or if outside Ottawa toll-free at 1-866-996-0991.
  •  If you (or your child) are experiencing thoughts of suicide or harming yourself, please call 9-1-1.
    ​
Stay connected to others in different ways. Check in with others by phone or other technology. Find positive coping strategies that work for you.  For more resources, please visit our Mental Health and COVID-19 webpage.

Thank you again for all the actions you are taking as a community – these actions matter. Together we are making a difference.
                                                                                ____________________________________________

À toutes les associations communautaires de la région d’Ottawa,

Merci aux résidents d’Ottawa qui continuent d’aider aplatir la courbe par rester à la maison et garder la distanciation physique. Nous pouvons changer l’impact que cette pandémie a sur notre ville lorsque nous travaillons tous ensemble.

Il est important de reconnaître que la situation entourant la COVID-19 évolue très rapidement. Veuillez consulter le site SantePubliqueOttawa.ca/Coronavirus pour vous tenir au courant des dernières informations. 

Les actions que les membres de vos groupes et organisations prennent maintenant sauveront des vies et feront une différence pour vos amis, votre famille, vos voisins et vos collègues. N’oubliez pas que la COVID-19 affecte tout le monde, peu importe l’âge et l’état de santé actuel. Il est important pour nous tous de continuer à pratiquer la distanciation physique. Cela signifie:

  1. Restez à la maison autant que possible. Ne quittez votre propriété que pour voyager de l’essentiel, comme faire l’épicerie ou visiter une pharmacie ;
  2. Restez à au moins 2 mètres (6 pieds) des personnes à l’extérieur de votre ménage ;
  3. Lavez-vous les mains avec du savon et de l’eau à fond et souvent ;
  4. Ne touchez pas votre visage avec les mains non lavées ;

Nettoyez régulièrement les téléphones et autres appareils, ainsi que les surfaces fréquemment touchées.
Pour plus d’informations sur la distanciation physique, visitez: SantePubliqueOttawa.ca/DistanciationPhysique

Masques

Les masques médicaux et les respirateurs N95 ne doivent pas être portés par des membres de la communauté en bonne santé.
Le port de masques non médicaux peut offrir une protection supplémentaire, surtout lorsque la distanciation physique est difficile à entretenir (p. ex., dans une épicerie, dans l’autobus). Les masques non médicaux peuvent inclure ceux qui sont fabriqués à partir de tissu (par exemple le coton); ceux qui ont des poches pour insérer des filtres; et ceux qui sont utilisés pour couvrir d’autres masques ou respirateurs pour prolonger leur utilisation. Le port d’un masque non médical n’est PAS un remplacement pour la distanciation physique, le lavage des mains et la surveillance de votre santé. Pour plus d’informations sur l’utilisation des masques pour empêcher la propagation de la COVID-19, veuillez visiter :www.SantePubliqueOttawa.ca/Masques
 
Symptômes et critères de dépistage

Si vous êtes en détresse (par exemple, si vous avez des difficultés respiratoires significatives, des douleurs thoraciques, si vous vous évanouissez ou si les symptômes d'une maladie chronique s'aggravent considérablement), ne vous rendez pas au Centre d'évaluation ou dans une Clinique de soins COVID-19. Rendez-vous au Service d'urgences le plus proche ou appelez le 9-1-1.

·       Les symptômes les plus courants de la COVID-19 sont la fièvre, la toux et la difficulté à respirer. 
·       Les symptômes les moins courants de la COVID-19 sont la fatigue inexpliquée, le délire (une affection médicale grave qui                  implique la confusion, des changements de mémoire et des comportements bizarres) les chutes, le déclin fonctionnel aigu,              l'aggravation des maladies chroniques, les nausées, les vomissements, la diarrhée, les douleurs abdominales, les frissons, les          maux de tête, la laryngotrachéite aiguë ou la perte du goût/de l'odeur.

COVID-19 peut également se présenter sous la forme de nouveaux symptômes respiratoires ou d'une aggravation de ceux-ci, tels que : mal de gorge, écoulement nasal, éternuements, congestion nasale, voix rauque ou difficulté à avaler. Il est recommandé aux personnes suivantes de se faire dépister pour la COVID-19 SI elles présentent au moins l’un des symptômes les plus courants OU l’un des symptômes les moins courants de la COVID-19 OU un symptôme respiratoire nouveau ou qui s’aggrave (veuillez consulter la liste des symptômes ci-dessus) :

·       Les travailleurs de la santé ou les membres du personnel qui travaillent dans des établissements de santé, ainsi que tous les            membres de leur ménage;
·       Les résidents et le personnel des foyers de soins de longue durée, des maisons de retraite, des établissements correctionnels,          des refuges pour sans-abri, des établissements de santé mentale, des hospices et d’autres lieux de vie collective;
·       Les personnes hospitalisées et celles qui seront probablement hospitalisées;
·       Membres de communautés éloignées, isolées, rurales et/ou autochtones;
·       Les soignants et prestataires de soins;
·       Les premiers répondants comme les pompiers, policiers et paramédics;
·       Les personnes ayant des contacts fréquents en matière de soins de santé, comme les patients atteints de cancer ou ceux qui          subissent des traitements de chimiothérapie ou de dialyse, qui vont subir ou ont subi une transplantation, les femmes                        enceintes et les nouveau-nés.

Il est recommandé aux personnes suivantes de se faire dépister pour la COVID-19 SI elles présentent au moins l’un des symptômes les plus courants de la COVID-19 comme une fièvre, une toux ou la difficulté à respirer.

·       Les personnes ayant eu des contacts étroits avec cas confirmés ou probables;
·       Les voyageurs internationaux de retour qui se font soigner;
·       Les travailleurs des infrastructures critiques – cela comprend les épiceries, les services alimentaires, les travailleurs de                      l’entretien et du transport, et les services publics.

Les patients qui répondent aux critères ci-dessus seront soumis au dépistage de la COVID-19, qui consiste à prélever un échantillon de la gorge ou du nez à l'aide d'un écouvillon.
 
Lieux de dépistage et de traitement

Centre d’évaluation – l’Aréna Brewer
151 Brewer Way
Accessible par l'avenue Bronson en face de l'université Carleton
Ouvert de 9 h à 15 h 30, 7 jours sur 7

Clinique de soins COVID-19 – location Moodie
595 Moodie Drive
Lundi au vendredi, de 9 h à 16 h

Clinique de soins COVID-19 – location Heron
1485 Heron Road
Lundi au vendredi, de 9 h à 16 h

·       Toute personne souffrant d'une maladie grave ne doit jamais hésiter à se rendre au Service d'urgences. Les hôpitaux de la région d'Ottawa ont tous la capacité de fournir un service d'urgence à ceux qui en ont besoin et appliquent des mesures strictes de prévention et de contrôle des infections.
 
Ressources multilingues pour la COVID-19

Santé publique Ottawa s’efforce de s’assurer que tous les membres de la communauté ont accès à l’information importante pour réduire la propagation de la COVID-19. Nous avons développé un site Web avec des informations essentielles de la COVID-19 offertes dans plus de 30 langues. www.SantePubliqueOttawa.ca/COVIDMultilingue 
 
Soutien aux victimes et aux survivants de la violence domestique

Malheureusement, l’isolement physique a accru le risque et l’incidence des aînés, des conjoints, des LGBTQ2 et des mauvais traitements infligés aux enfants. Nous voulons encourager les gens à avoir accès aux ressources incroyables disponibles pour aider à prévenir et à aider dans ces situations.

  1. Le Centre hospitalier pour enfants de l’Est de l’Ontario;
  2. La Société d’aide à l’enfance;
  3. La ligne de crise d’Ottawa au 613-722-6914;
  4. La ligne de crise du Bureau des services à la jeunesse 613-260-2360 ou visiter chat.ysb.ca ;
  5. Jeunesse j’écoute au 1-800-668-6868 ou à envoyer des textos au #686868 ;
  6. Les ressources du Réseau de soutien communautaire de Champlain pour les personnes âgées ;
  7. Le Service de police d’Ottawa.

Il y a aussi un nouveau programme lancé avec l’appui de Prévention du crime d’Ottawa, « Pas bien chez soi à Ottawa », une ressource de texte et de clavardage pour les personnes qui se sentent piégées à la maison avec quelqu’un qui est violent.  Pour utiliser ce programme, vous pouvez envoyer un texto au 613-704-5535 ou clavarder en ligne à PasBienOttawa.ca. 

Aider les enfants à faire face à la pandémie de la COVID-19
Être séparé de ses amis et de sa famille peut être un défi pour tout le monde. Pour les enfants et les adolescents, il peut être encore plus difficile. Il est important que chacun pratique la distanciation physique, mais cette idée peut être difficile à comprendre pour les enfants. Voici ce que les parents peuvent faire pour aider leurs enfants à faire face à cette situation.

·       Les rassurer sur leur sécurité;
·       Encouragez-les à poser des questions et à parler de ce qu'ils ressentent;
·       Soyez compréhensif – ils peuvent avoir des problèmes de sommeil, être bouleversés et avoir besoin de soins et d'attention                supplémentaires;
·       N'oubliez pas que les enfants attendent de leurs parents qu'ils se sentent en sécurité et qu'ils sachent comment réagir –                    rassurez-les et faites-leur savoir que vous vous attaquerez à ce problème ensemble;
·       Essayez de respecter les routines et les horaires normaux – permettez-leur de sortir et de jouer sous surveillance. Il ne s'agit              pas d'une date de jeu, alors pendant qu'ils sont dehors, rappelez-leur de se tenir à 2 mètres ou 6 pieds des autres; 
·       Encouragez-les à rester en contact avec leurs amis ou d'autres enfants de leur âge par le biais de chats vidéo ou d'appels                  téléphoniques supervisés.
 
La distanciation physique pour les parents, les adolescents et les enfants

La distanciation physique consiste à prendre des mesures pour limiter le nombre de personnes avec lesquelles vous et votre famille êtes en contact étroit. C'est essential pour limiter la propagation de laCOVID-19 dans la communauté. Bien qu'être séparé de ses amis et de sa famille puisse être difficile, même pour les adultes, cela peut ressembler à la fin du monde pour les enfants et les adolescents. Les enfants peuvent être plus facilement distancés socialement que les adolescents, qui - pour être franc - repoussent plus loin un besoin d'indépendance croissante. 

Le concept de distanciation physique s'applique en dehors de votre domicile. Les personnes avec lesquelles vous vivez n'ont pas besoin de s'éloigner les unes des autres, sauf si elles sont malades ou ont voyagé au cours des 14 derniers jours. La distance physique et la distance émotionnelle ne sont pas les mêmes. La mise à distance sociale fait référence à l'espace physique. Ces recommandations visent à maintenir l'espace physique par rapport aux autres ménages, tout en gardant un lien émotionnel! 

Soutien aux personnes âgées

Le médecin chef en santé publique de l’Ontario exhorte fortement les personnes de plus de 70 ans à rester à la maison et à s’isoler. Suivez ces instructions générales sur l’auto-isolement.
Bien que les centres d’activités pour personnes âgées d’Ottawa aient fermé leurs portes pour limiter la propagation de la COVID-19 parmi la population âgée vulnérable, les centres pour personnes âgées et communautaires continuent de coordonner les bénévoles, de planifier les repas et de tendre la main par téléphone.
Ressources disponibles :

  1. Santé publique d’Ottawa - Santé mentale et COVID-19
  2. Le Centre pour personnes âgées Les bon compagnons offre par téléphone des programmes ou des séances d’apprentissage pour les personnes âgées et les adultes ayant une déficience physique :
    1. Centres pour personnes âgées sans murs
    2. Une voix amicale
    3. Les bons compagnons
    4. Réseau de la fierté principale d’Ottawa
 
Santé mentale et COVID-19

Vérifiez avec vous-même. Il est normal de ne pas se sentir bien. Il est normal que des situations comme celles-ci affectent votre santé mentale.

  1. Si vous êtes en crise, veuillez communiquer avec la Ligne de crise d’Ottawa  (24 heures par jour/7 jours par semaine) au 613-722-6914 ou si à l’extérieur d’Ottawa est sans frais au 1-866-996-0991.
  2. Si vous (ou votre enfant) avez des pensées suicidaires ou vous faites du mal, veuillez composer le 9-1-1.

Restez connecté aux autres de différentes façons. Connectez-vous avec d’autres par téléphone ou d’autres technologies. Trouvez des stratégies d’adaptation positives qui fonctionnent pour vous.

Pour plus de ressources, veuillez visiter notre page Web sur la santé mentale et COVID-19..
​Merci encore une fois pour toutes les actions que vous prenez en tant que communauté - ces actions comptent. Ensemble, nous faisons une différence.
COVID-19 Update April 16, 2020
 
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has provided an update on COVID-19 in our city and how it is dealing with the pandemic.

Some detail from today’s OPH update:

Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health Dr. Vera Etches is urging the public to limit trips outside your home and suggests wearing masks to help reduce the spread of the virus. While OPH’s efforts are working, physical distancing is still extremely important.
Dr. Etches also revealed that hospital emergency rooms are running at half their usual volumes and encourages anyone who feels they need to visit an ER, to do so.
 
COVID-19 Testing
The list of who should be tested has been expanded.
To see if you meet the criteria:
https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/shared-content/covid-19-testing-criteria.aspx#healthcare
Note: The assessment centre at Brewer Arena has changed its hours. The new hours are 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
 
Mental Health
Your mental health during this situation is very important. It is natural to feel stressed, so Ottawa Public Health has put together a video on positive coping strategies.
You can find the video here:
English: https://youtu.be/FMG3xaecN9Y
French: https://youtu.be/7YcDHjUCxJc
 
In response to the COVID-19 situation, the Walk-in Counselling Clinic is offering phone and video counselling services. For more information: https://walkincounselling.com/
 
 
 Recreation programs and memberships
Have questions about reimbursements for cancelled bookings, recreation programs, memberships and more due to #COVID19?
Find out everything you need to know:
https://ottawa.ca/en/recreation-and-parks/recreation-programs/covid-19-cancellation-credits-and-refunds
 
 As a reminder, my office is open, and we are here to help.  You can email me at [email protected] or call our main line 613-580-2752 and leave a message.
COVID-19 Update April 15, 2020
 
I hope you are all keeping safe during these very difficult times. As a reminder, my office is open, and we are here to help.  You can email me at [email protected] or call our main line 613-580-2752 and leave a message.
 
Ottawa Public Health
As you are aware, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) continues to work round the clock to provide up to date, accurate information for residents. Please find below links to updated information on a variety of topics. Please visit www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca for more Covid-19 updates and information.
 
The latest information on research and cases can be found here:
English: Perceptions and practices in Ottawa during the COVID 19 response
French: Perceptions et pratiques à Ottawa pendant la réponse à la COVID-19
 
The latest statement from Dr. Brent Moloughney and Dr. Andrew can be found here:
English: Special Statement
French: Déclaration spéciale 
 
Tips for taking care of your mental health:
English: https://youtu.be/FMG3xaecN9Y
French: https://youtu.be/7YcDHjUCxJc
 
Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection in Child Care Centres
English: Infection Prevention and Control in Child Care Centres
French : Mesures de prévention et contrôle des infections dans un service de garde d'enfants
 
Tips for staying active during COVID-19:
English: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/ActiveDuringCOVID19
French: SantePubliqueOttawa.ca/ActifPendantCOVID19
 
Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre continues to provide the following supports to our vulnerable, isolated community members living in the former cities of Kanata and Nepean and the former townships of Goulbourn and West Carleton:
  • Telephone based crisis intervention
  • Telephone based crisis counseling
  • Telephone based counseling for women experiencing gender-based violence
  • Telephone based regular check-ins
  • Telephone support with navigating systems
  • Food/Supplies deliveries
  • Medically necessary transportation
  • Virtual programming and services
  • Online resources
 
Chrysalis House, our shelter for self-identified women (over 16) and their dependents who are experiencing violence in the home and need to leave to keep safe from violence or abuse. 
Chrysalis House offers a crisis phone line 24 hours/day at 613-591-5901
_________________

Call Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre at 613-591-3686
Visit us at
www.wocrc.ca
www.facebook.com/WOCRC.CRCOO/
twitter.com/WOCRC_CRCOO
Email us at [email protected]
 
Garbage pick up
Waste collection is delayed by one day this week due Monday's holiday.
 
Support Local
Today, and every Wednesday going forward is #NationalTakeoutDay !  Help support local businesses by ordering dinner from your favourite restaurant tonight. 
April 9, 2020
 
City will close vehicular access and parking lots to three closed popular park destinations

Ottawa – Effective Friday, April 10, the City will close vehicular access and parking lots to three of its parks that are currently closed but continue to be popular destinations for residents – Britannia Park, Mooney’s Bay and Petrie Island. 
These measures are in place to further support the City park closures and provincial gathering restrictions put in place to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
 
The access closures and restrictions include:
 
Britannia Park
  • Main entrance at Greenview and Carling avenues: The northbound lane of Greenview Avenue, off Carling Avenue, will be blocked and restricted to local traffic only.
  • Greenview Avenue, south of Don Street:  Access to Greenview Avenue, south of Don Street, will blocked and closed to all traffic.
 
Mooney’s Bay
  • Main entrance at the intersection of Riverside Drive and Ridgewood Avenue: The vehicle entrance leading to the Mooney’s Bay parking lot will be blocked and closed to all traffic. The turning and merge lanes on the west side of Riverside Drive will have traffic barrels to divert traffic away from the blocked entrance.
 
Petrie Island
  • Trim Road and Jeanne d’Arc Boulevard intersection:  Trim Road, north of the Jeanne d’Arc Boulevard intersection, will be closed to all traffic.
 
The park closures for these three parks remain the same as other City parks. Walking through a park to reach your destination or for exercise is permitted, provided you do not linger or gather with others, play or undertake any other activity. Be sure you practice physical distancing by keeping two metres from other people who may be walking or jogging directly through the park.
 
For up-to-date information on the COVID-19 pandemic in Ottawa, visit ottawa.ca/covid19 or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-9656). You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 
 
                                                                    ______________________________________________________


Le 9 avril 2020

La Ville bloque l’accès et ferme les stationnements de trois parcs fermés encore très fréquentés
 
Ottawa – À compter du vendredi 10 avril, la Ville bloquera l'accès aux véhicules et fermera les stationnements de trois de ses parcs qui sont actuellement fermés, mais qui continuent d'être des destinations populaires pour les résidents d’Ottawa, soit le parc Britannia, le parc Mooney's Bay et l’île Petrie. 
Ces mesures ont été adoptées pour appuyer davantage les fermetures des parcs municipaux et les restrictions provinciales liées aux rassemblements qui ont été mises en place pour freiner la propagation de la COVID-19.
 
Les fermetures et les restrictions d'accès comprennent :
 
Le parc Britannia
  • Entrée principale à l’intersection des avenues Greenview et Carling – la voie en direction nord de l'avenue Greenview, à la sortie de l'avenue Carling, sera bloquée et limitée à la circulation locale.
  • Avenue Greenview, au sud de la rue Don – l'accès à l'avenue Greenview, au sud de la rue Don, sera bloqué et fermé à la circulation.
 
Le parc Mooney’s Bay
  • Entrée principale à l'intersection de la promenade Riverside et de l’avenue Ridgewood – l’entrée des véhicules menant au stationnement du parc Mooney's Bay sera bloquée et fermée à la circulation. Des balises seront placées sur les voies de virage et d’insertion situées à l’ouest de la promenade Riverside pour que les véhicules ne puissent pas se diriger vers l'entrée bloquée.
 
L’île Petrie
  • Intersection du chemin Trim et du boulevard Jeanne d'Arc – le chemin Trim sera fermé à la circulation, au nord de l'intersection.
 
Les fermetures de ces trois parcs correspondent à celles des autres parcs municipaux. Il est permis de se promener dans un parc pour atteindre sa destination ou pour faire de l'exercice, à condition de ne pas s'attarder ou se rassembler avec d'autres personnes, de ne pas jouer ou d'entreprendre toute autre activité. Veuillez respecter les mesures de distanciation physique en vous tenant à deux mètres des autres personnes qui pourraient marcher ou faire du jogging dans le parc.
 
Pour obtenir des informations actualisées sur la pandémie de COVID-19 à Ottawa, consultez la page ottawa.ca/fr/covid19 ou composez le 3-1-1 (ATS : 613-580-9656). Vous pouvez également communiquer avec nous sur Facebook, Twitter et Instagram.
April 8th, 2020
  • denotes a revision/addition from earlier version of this document
 
Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre continues to provide the following supports to our vulnerable, isolated community members living in the former cities of Kanata and Nepean and the former townships of Goulbourn and West Carleton:
  • Telephone based crisis intervention
  • Telephone based crisis counseling
  • Telephone based counseling for women experiencing gender based violence
  • Telephone based regular check-ins
  • Telephone support with navigating systems
  • Food/Supplies deliveries
  • Medically necessary transportation
  • Virtual programming and services
  • Online resources
 
Chrysalis House, our shelter for self-identified women (over 16) and their dependents who are experiencing violence in the home and need to leave to keep safe from violence or abuse. 
Chrysalis House offers a crisis phone line 24 hours/day at 613-591-5901
                                        ______________________________________________________________________________
 
Call Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre at 613-591-3686
Visit us at
www.wocrc.ca
www.facebook.com/WOCRC.CRCOO/
twitter.com/WOCRC_CRCOO
Email us at [email protected]
 
 Specific COVID 19 response  - WOCRC  services

Orders must be in by Friday at 12 pm for Monday delivery, Monday at 12 pm for Wednesday delivery.   This service is available to any vulnerable, isolated community members (no age restrictions).  There is a fee associated with the cost of the meals; subsidies are available

  • Grocery order delivery, twice per week  (Tuesday and Thursday)
Call us at 613-591-3686 x 336  OR email us at [email protected]
Orders must be in, directly to 613-591-3686 x 336  by Friday at 12:00 pm for delivery the following week.    This service is available to any vulnerable, isolated community members (no age restrictions). Priority will be given to community members living in West Carleton.  Delivery will be limited to 30 households/week.   Payment will be made directly to the store for the grocery order; subsidies are available 

  • Gift card (food and gas) delivery twice per week  (Wednesday and Friday)
Call us at 613-591-3686 x 269   Or email us at [email protected]
Requests must be in on Mondays by 12:00pm
This service is available to any vulnerable, isolated community members (no age restrictions)

  • * Virtual (video and phone) counselling and crisis intervention is available through our Counseling Services team.  Services are available until 7:30pm every Wednesday.
Call us at 613-591-3686 x 269 or email us at [email protected]
This service is available to any vulnerable, isolated community members

  • Online groups for youth - ZONE, ZONE+ and Queerios–
Call us at 613-591-3686 x 261 or email us at [email protected]

  • Virtual programming available through our EarlyON Child and Family Centre
Call us at 613-591-3686 x 5 or email us at [email protected]
Sign up for the EarlyON C+FC mail list at https://mailchi.mp/74e4ca8b66ca/wocrc
Visit the EarlyON C+FC Pinterest page at https://www.pinterest.ca/earlyonwocrc/

  • Virtual Caregiver Support available for individuals caring for someone living with dementia
Call us at 613-591-3686 x 312 or email us at [email protected]
 
 
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Important links
 
What you need to know to help you and your family stay healthy
https://files.ontario.ca/moh-coronavirus-pec-poster-en-2020-03-09.pdf
 
Ottawa Public Health
https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/public-health-topics/novel-coronavirus.aspx?utm_source=OPH&utm_medium=Home_Page_Banner&utm_campaign=Coronavirus&utm_content=Home_Page_Banner_OPH
 
Province of Ontario
https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus
 
Canada
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html

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                                                                                           Useful resources
 
General Information
  • Ontario 211 is a free helpline that connects you to community and social services in your area, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in 150 different languages  Dial 211 on your phone or https://211ontario.ca
   
  • If people or companies are wishing to donate, or if community members are looking for some specific items, please email  [email protected].
 
Physical and Mental Health Supports
  • Kids Help Phone – 24 hours a day, 365 days/year, offering professional counselling, information and referrals and volunteer-led, text-based support to young people in both English and French. Connect by phone, text, mobile app or through our website  1-800-668-6868  https://kidshelpphone.ca/
     
  • The Distress Centre of Ottawa and region, your local connection to mental health support and resources 24 hours/day, 365 days /year   https://www.dcottawa.on.ca/  or   Distress 613-238-3311   Crisis  613-722-6914 or 1-866-996-0991  
 
  • * Tel-Aide offrons un service d’écoute téléphonique en français aux personnes qui ont besoin d’une oreille, qui nécessitent du soutien ou de références.    1-800-567-9699  http://www.telaide.org/en/
 
  • For dental emergencies during this time, the Ottawa Dental Society Emergency Services will be coordinating a voluntary referral service; please call (613) 523-4185. For recipients of Ontario Works, please contact Merivale Dental Clinic at 613-580-9631  
 
  • *  Telehealth Ontario is a free, confidential service you can call to get health advice or information. A registered nurse will take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Télésanté Ontario est un service téléphonique, gratuit et confidentiel, que vous pouvez appeler pour obtenir des conseils ou des renseignements médicaux. Une infirmière ou un infirmier autorisé vous répondra 24 heures sur 24, 7 jours sur 7:  1-866-797-0000 

Victims of violence and abuse  
  • *  FEM’AIDE, offre aux femmes d’expression française aux prises avec la violence sexiste, du soutien, des renseignments et de l’aiguillage vers les services appropriés dans leur collectivité, 24 heures par jour, sept jours par semaine.  Fem’aide peut également repondre aux demandes de renseignments faites par les proches des femmes victims de violence  1 800 268-7568 ou  http://femaide.ca/
 
  • *  Elder Abuse Response and Referral Service provides intake, information, consultation, referral, and support services for seniors at-risk or who are in an abusive situation.
613-596-5626 ext. 230
 
Older adults, adults with disabilities and their caregivers  
  • The Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County is committed more than ever to our vision that no one should face dementia alone, and will continue to support people living with dementia and their caregivers during this unique and challenging time.

Contact us at
  1. Caredove (very easy): https://www.caredove.com/dementiasociety
  2. Website (no health card needed):
    1. English: https://dementiahelp.ca/get-help/request-for-help-professionals/
    2. French: https://dementiahelp.ca/get-help/demande-de-consultation/

Our Dementia Care Coach Support line is open Monday-Thursday 8:30am-8:00pm and Friday 8:30am-4:00pm.
  • Ottawa: 613-523-4004
  • Renfrew County: 888-411-2067

To register for our weekly bulletin sign up here: https://dementiahelp.ca/resources/news/

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Food Security
  • Mosques around the City are providing delivery of food, medication or other essential items, and a friendly person to talk to.  Contact: Malika Nouh at 819.576.4966 or Lubna Syed at 613.255.0870.
 
  • Areas Food Cupboards​​